Weekend Gold Coast Bulletin

Key advice on offer to drivers to reduce the risk of vehicle theft

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RACQ has urged vehicle owners to get serious about protecting their car keys as the club’s new research found 70 per cent of Queensland­ers admitted to storing their keys in easy to steal places including inside the vehicle.

The warning came after RACQ insurance claims data revealed the Gold Coast, Logan, Brisbane and Townsville regions were hot spots for car theft.

RACQ spokeswoma­n Kirsty Clinton said the club had received more than 3600 insurance claims for stolen cars in the past three years.

“Unfortunat­ely, car theft is a growing problem but there are some simple things drivers can do to secure their vehicle and it all starts with your keys,” Ms Clinton said.

“As vehicle security improves, the easiest way to steal a car is to use the keys.

“So, you need to treat your keys like cash. If you wouldn’t leave a few thousand dollars on a table beside the front door or on the front seat of your car, don’t leave your keys there.

“Also, don’t tag your keys with identifier­s like your name and especially not your address.

“Our research shows one in five drivers throw their keys on the table and another 22 per cent hang them on a visible hook marked keys. This really isn’t good enough.”

Ms Clinton said drivers should also remember the basics for properly securing their vehicle when out and about.

“Wherever possible, try to park in a secure car park. If that’s not available, choose somewhere well-lit and wellpopula­ted to reduce the temptation for opportunis­tic thieves,” she said.

“Make sure, whenever you leave your vehicle, your windows are up, doors are locked and don’t leave valuables visible in the car.”

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