After a spike in the number of vehicle thefts in Street and Glastonbury, police are urging residents to adopt stronger security measures for their vehicles.

Police recommend various deterrents, including alarms, security lighting, and CCTV systems.

"There's been a worrying increase in vehicle thefts in our area," a police spokesperson said.

"We advise residents to take steps to secure their vehicles, such as installing alarms, using effective security lighting, and where feasible, CCTV."

Vehicle owners in Street and Glastonbury are advised to follow these safety tips:

• Park in Well-lit Areas: Look for parking spots that are well-illuminated, especially those covered by CCTV.
• Use Steering Locks: These are effective, even in newer vehicles.
• Install Car Alarms: Ensure they are in working order and consider upgrading if needed.
• Secure Number Plates: Use anti-theft screws to prevent theft.
• Hide Valuables: Never leave valuable items visible in your car.
• Check Your Car: Consistently check that your car is locked and secured.
• Vehicle Tracking Devices: For higher-value cars, tracking devices are recommended.
• Use a Faraday pouch to block signal from your key fob.
• Turn off keyless entry on your car if possible.
• Keep your car keys away from doors and windows at home.

Community vigilance is also essential. The police encourage prompt reporting of suspicious activities using the 101 or 999 services, depending on the urgency.