Protect your catalytic converter
The theft of catalytic converters (located in a vehicle's exhaust system) continues to be a problem in Aylesbury Vale, particularly from vehicles with a high ground clearance – such as vans and 4x4 vehicles.
Offences are taking place in urban and rural locations including from drives and on the street. It can cost up to £1,200 to replace a stolen converter – they are appealing to thieves because of the high value of the precious metals they contain.
To help make catalytic converters more difficult to steal and less attractive to thieves, the Aylesbury Vale Community Safety Partnership recommends a number of precautions people can take to help protect their catalytic converter. These can be found on the attached four-sided PDF advice leaflet.
In particular, a new purpose made catalytic alarm (Thatcham approved) is recommended that goes off if any attempt is made to remove the converter. This is available at a discount for people living or having a business in the Vale of Aylesbury. Full details are contained on the PDF (see download available below the image).
A number of garages across Aylesbury Vale will engrave your catalytic converter with a security number free of charge if you have your vehicle serviced or repaired there. For more information about this, please click here.
Alternatively, contact AVDC Community Safety on: 01296 585 014
If you see anyone acting suspiciously around parked vehicles make sure you report it immediately to the Police. If something looks out of place, such as someone under a vehicle after dark, then your local officers want to know about it! If we receive the information at the time it is happening officers stand a better chance of finding out what they are up to. Report it on the 24 hour Police Enquiry Centre number 101 or if you suspect a crime is in progress dial on 999.
If you have any information about this type of crime and don't want to speak to the Police you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online via the Crimestoppers website.
