Latoya Grindley, Features Writer

Deputy Superintendent Cornwall 'Bigga' Ford shows some of the many vehicles stolen from their owners but recovered by the police at the Flying Squad in Kingston. - Norman Grindley/Deputy Chief Photographer

The Christmas season is upon us and many are looking forward to weeks of fun and frolicking. But in the midst of all the excitement, there are things that have to be considered in terms of protecting one's property or possessions.

Motor vehicles are extremely vulnerable during this time, due especially to the many events and activities people normally attend throughout the holidays. At many of these events, motorists are forced to leave vehicles out of their sight.

Head of the Flying Squad Unit, Deputy Superintendent Cornwall 'Bigga' Ford, says there are many precautionary measures that can be taken to lessen the chances of vehicle theft.

According to him, installing kill-switches in vehicles is highly effective and a proactive way to prevent theft. A kill-switch is a hidden device that has to be activated for the car to start. DSP Ford said hiding the switch is critical. "You have to place the switch in places that are not too common and obvious and to get this switch installed, it is advised that you go to reputable places."

Tracking device

Another tool he highlighted was the tracking device. While noting that this was not currently a popular tool in Jamaica today, he claimed it is highly effective. "A car was stolen in Havendale in St. Andrew and we (the police) were able to find the vehicle in rural Jamaica and this was because a tracking device was installed in it," he said. A tracking device is an electronic transmitter hidden in the vehicle which emits a signal that can be picked up by the police or a monitoring station. The signal will pinpoint the location of the vehicle.

Another common method DSP Ford endorsed is the steering wheel lock. This is a long metal bar with a lock that fits on the steering wheel and is designed to prevent the steering wheel from being turned. It also acts as a visual deterrent for thieves looking through car windows.

It is the season for joy, happiness and cheerfulness, so while enjoying the festivities, it makes sense to ensure that vehicles are properly secured.

latoya.grindley@gleanerjm.com