Firefighters are pictured getting ready to tackle a fire in an abandoned car.

18 September 2008

Is your car or motorbike a target for thieves and arsonists? That's the question Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service is asking after being called out to 30 deliberate vehicle fires so far this month, including one in Milton Keynes this morning.

Terry Ridgley, head of Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service's community safety team, said: "In many cases, these burnt out cars have been reported stolen or even used in a crime. With a little care and forethought, you can reduce the risk of your car or motorbike ending up like this."

To reduce the risk or theft or arson, follow this simple checklist:

Where to leave your car: At night, park in a well-lit place. Thieves like working in shadows, so avoid poorly lit areas. In a ticket-exit car park, take the ticket with you and always try to use a secured car park.

Remove the ignition key: Don't leave the key in the ignition - not even for just a few seconds to go into your home, a shop or pay for petrol.

Close all windows: When you leave the car, close windows. Don't forget the sun roof.

Always lock doors and boot/tailgate: Even when the car is in your own drive or garage, lock it and take the keys with you.

Fit and use anti-theft devices: Thieves are opportunists, so they will probably move on to a car without a device fitted. Vehicle tracking systems can help trace your vehicle in the event of it being stolen.

Report abandoned cars to your local authority or the police: Nearly half of vehicle arson occurs in abandoned cars. Reporting an abandoned car could help someone else get their car back intact, and prevent an arson attack.

Hide property: Whenever possible take your property with you when you leave the car. Always ensure any belongings that you are travelling with are locked in the boot. In hatchbacks the rear shelf should always be in position. In an estate car cover property with a blanket.

Keep keys in a secure place both at home and at work: Burglars have been known to break into houses and offices just to steal car keys. At home, don't be in the habit of leaving your car keys close to the front door where they can be seen.

Factfile

Every year in the UK around 93,000 road vehicles (or about 250 every day) go up in flames and about 75 people die as a result.

About 80 per cent of car fires are started deliberately to cover criminal activity or as an act of vandalism. One in 12 reported stolen vehicles will be set on fire.

Nearly half of all vehicle arson occurs in road vehicles that have previously been reported stolen.

Modern car interiors are largely composed of polymers, plastics and other synthetic materials - all of which are particularly flammable. The smoke and fumes from the outbreak of fire are highly toxic and can be deadly, if inhaled.