HAMPSHIRE Police has issued guidance to vehicle owners in the Andover area following reports of thefts from cars over the weekend.

Officers received a number of calls reporting that items, particularly mobile phones, had been stolen from vehicles while the owners were out walking or doing other outdoor activities.

Many reports were from people in the rural areas surrounding Andover and have prompted Andover Police to pass on the following guidance about keeping belongings safe from thieves: * When leaving a car, close all windows and lock the car.

  • Upon locking the vehicle try the door to ensure it is actually locked.
  • Park the car in an attended car park where possible.
  • When parking at home, use a garage or park in a well-lit area.
  • Don't leave anything on display in the vehicle.
  • Take all personal possessions with you.
  • Remove sat nav holders and visible sat nav ring marks from windscreens.
  • Leave the glove box open to show there's nothing inside.
  • Fit an alarm or immobiliser to the car.
  • Record the details of any property on the Immobilise website (immobilise.com).
  • Do not store the car's documents in the vehicle.