Don’t Let Car Crime Spoil Your Festival

We are now in the height of summer. The time of year when music fans head to one of the fantastic festivals being held across the country. Hoping to bask in the sunshine, listen to their favourite artists and have a good time. However, there is often a criminal element looking to spoil the fun. They target music lover`s cars and steal their valuables. Police are warning fans to stay safe and do what they can to reduce their chances of being a victim of crime when going to a festival.

There are many incredible events taking place over the coming months, from July to September. These include the fabulous Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival, on the Belladrum Estate near Inverness in August. `Rewind` is held on two sites, the Temple Island Meadows, Berkshire in England and Scone Palace, Perthshire in Scotland. Glasgow Green hosted the TRNSMT festival and the Hebridean Celtic Festival, otherwise known as Hebcelt, takes place in Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis in July.

If you are travelling to one of these upcoming music festivals, there are steps you can take to prevent something from going wrong. For instance, make your arrangements way in advance and consider your driving time. Is there a chance the roads will be busy? Should you leave early to avoid traffic?

Keep your car locked and only take what you require. Don’t leave anything with your name and address, or any valuables, unattended.

Ensure you have all your belongings. Don’t display valuables like your wallet or mobile phone out in plain sight in the car. You should also empty the glove compartment and leave it open, to show there is nothing to steal.

If possible, park in a well-lit space close to an exit. Have your keys out and ready when entering the vehicle, so you can unlock the door and get in as quickly as possible.

If you are driving home from the festival, drink only water the night before. It may seem fundamental, but never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol and keep in mind the reduced drink-drive limit.
There is nothing like a festival, and most people just want to enjoy themselves. So, stay safe and don’t become a victim of crime. Keep your eyes open and don’t let the car thieves spoil your experience.