ALERT: Clare gardaí issue urgent warning amid spate of car thefts in the county

Following a number of car thefts just last week across Clare, An Garda Síochána have issued crime prevention advice to motorists ahead of the Christmas period. 

With many cars now using a keyless entry system, which works by sending a signal between the key and vehicle, relay signal theft is now on the rise. This can occur when the signal of the key is mimicked and used to gain entry to a car.

In order to prevent the key signal transmitting while away from the vehicle, it can be placed in a Faraday bag, box or even in a biscuit tin for storage. By doing this, the radio signal will be restricted from being emitted, reducing the risk of the key being copied. 

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Gardaí in Clare have now issued advice on how to prevent your vehicle from being stolen following this spate of thefts: 

• A visible steering wheel lock or chain should be considered
• Lock doors and fully close windows. Do not be tempted to leave the windows slightly open
• Fit an alarm
• Fit an Immobiliser or use a physical lock
• Install a tracker
• Use a catalytic converter lock
• Park in a secure carpark
• Park where there is CCTV when possible
• Fit theft-resistant number plate fittings
• Have a sensor linked to your house alarm that can be fitted to the vehicle and activate when you are at home

A spokesperson for gardaí in the county commented on this further, saying, "Remember, if you see anything, anyone or any vehicle in your area acting suspiciously or if a vehicle enters your yard that you don’t recognise and you are concerned, please contact ‘999’ immediately.

"Try to remember the colour, make of the vehicle and remember that your safety is paramount. Do not engage with the occupants, please go into your home and lock the door. If it turns out to be a neighbour or a friend calling, you can ring ‘999’ and cancel the call. An Garda Síochána would like the public to call, it is with their assistance that crimes are prevented, property recovered and offenders identified," they added.