Catalytic converter theft rise

POLICE are warning motorists in Charnwood that they have seen an increase in the number of reported catalytic converter thefts.

Sergeant Roderick Smart told residents in a newsletter that cars which were often targeted were those with higher chassis, such as a 4x4 or an SUV, however, other cars could still be targeted along with vans.

He said to reduce the risk of having your catalytic converter stolen, you should following the following advice:

• Park your car in a locked garage where possible, but if this isn’t an option, then park it in a well-lit and well-populated area

• Park close to fences,

walls or a kerb with the exhaust being closest to the fence, wall or kerb to make the theft more difficult

• Avoid parking your

vehicle half on the pavement and half on the road, as this may make it easier for thieves to access the catalytic converter

• If parking in a public

car park, consider parking alongside other cars and facing you bonnet towards the wall if possible. With the catalytic converter positioned at the front of your vehicle, this will make it harder for thieves to get close enough to steal it • If there is a fleet of vehicles, park the low clearance vehicles to block the high clearance vehicles. This will obstruct access underneath

• If your catalytic converter is bolted on, you can ask for your local garage to weld the bolts to make it more difficult to remove.

Sgt Smart said: “Alternatively, you can also etch a serial number on the converter.

“You can even purchase a ‘cage clamp’ which is a cage device that locks in around the converter to make it more difficult to remove.

“If you see someone acting suspiciously under a vehicle, report it to the Police. Obtain as much information as possible, including any vehicle registrations. You can find out more at https://www.theaa.com/ driving- advice/ security/ catalytic-converter-theft