Cherrybrook Residents Urged to Stay Vigilant After Attempted Car Theft

The Cherrybrook Residents Association is warning locals to remain vigilant after an attempted car theft occurred on a resident’s driveway in the early hours of Saturday morning. While the thieves did not manage to steal the vehicle, they did cause damage to a side window and the ignition switch, leaving the car owner shaken.

This incident is a stark reminder of the growing issue of vehicle thefts in Ireland. According to An Garda Síochána, over 4,000 vehicles were reported stolen in 2023—a staggering 52% increase from the previous year. Car thefts are also 17% higher compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019.

Gardaí believe that the rise in thefts may be linked to the increase in second-hand imported cars, which often lack modern safety features. The Cherrybrook Residents Association is urging all car owners to take precautions to protect their vehicles.

Seven Tips to Keep Your Car Safe:

1. Park in Secure Areas: Always choose well-lit, monitored spaces, preferably covered by CCTV. Avoid parking in dark or secluded areas.
2. Use Anti-Theft Devices: Consider steering wheel locks, pedal locks, or signal-blocking pouches to prevent key cloning and signal relaying.
3. Always Lock Your Car: Even if you’re leaving your car for just a moment, ensure it’s locked and secured.
4. Don’t Leave Valuables in Sight: Remove any visible items that might attract thieves.
5. Install a Tracking Device: A GPS tracker can help locate your car quickly in the event of a theft.
6. Fit Theft-Resistant Number Plate Fittings: Secure your number plates with high-security screws to deter criminals.
7. Store Your Keys Safely: Keep your keys out of sight and away from entry points like windows and doors.

What to Do if Your Car is Stolen:

If your vehicle is stolen, report it to the Gardaí immediately, and then contact your insurance company to lodge a claim.

The Cherrybrook Residents Association reminds everyone to stay alert and take these simple but effective measures to protect their vehicles from theft.