DRIVERS have been warned about the dangers of keeping Christmas gifts in their cars this festive period.
People are travelling up and down the UK to visit their loved ones and exchange gifts for Christmas.
People are reminded not to leave valuable presents in their cars this ChristmasGetty
Over this period, people are more likely to store gifts, shopping, and other valuables in vehicles, meaning it is crucial for drivers to take extra precautions to prevent break-ins and theft.
Some 34% of drivers have had their car broken into in the past, however, just 32% of drivers take additional precautions to prevent car thefts and break-ins.
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The car insurance team at Comparethemarket has provided their top tips on how drivers can protect themselves and their vehicles from theft over the Christmas period.
The study also revealed which parking areas are at the highest risk of theft and break-ins.
A spokesperson at Comparethemarket said: “If you’re returning home from a shopping trip this festive season it’s always best to store your items safely in your house as soon as you get home.
“Over half (51%) of car break-ins happen when the vehicles are parked in residential areas (18% in the driveway, 33% on the street), which shows that even if it’s close to your property, the car (and anything inside it), may not be completely safe from thieves.”
Comparethemarket suggests avoiding secluded areas and ideally choosing a car park that’s well-lit and manned or one with a Park Mark safer parking award.
It also reminds drivers to take their valuables with them or hide them from sight.
Even a charger cable could be of value to someone, and it may hint at there being a device inside the car.
But it isn’t just the valuables and the presents that are at risk – the car itself is hot property.
Comparethemarket recommends that drivers store their keys in a signal-blocking pouch if they have keyless entry.
This will prevent thieves from cloning your key’s signal and tricking your car into unlocking.