Police issue warning over thefts from cars in and around Sheffield hospital

South Yorkshire Police said there has been a spate of incidents in the grounds of the hospital and in the Horndean Road and Earl Marshall Road areas of Fir Vale.

Thieves have taken items left on display from some cars and they have also stolen catalytic converters from some Toyotas.

Sergeant Phil Mackey, from the Fir Vale neighbourhood policing team, said: “We are working closely with hospital security staff around the issues on their site however there are some simple steps that everyone can take to reduce their risk of becoming a victim of theft from vehicles.“Most vehicle crime is preventable. It can take as little as 10 seconds for a thief to steal something from your car. The best way to protect your belongings is to lock your car whenever you leave it.

“Other things you can do include removing everything from the car; don't even leave a jacket where it can be seen.“Close the sunroof along with the windows when you leave and do not store things in the boot; take them with you.“Have a routine to ensure you always take the keys out of the ignition. Take removable stereos and sat nav equipment with you.“In addition, using secure, theft resistant number plates can make your plates less attractive to thieves.

“Where you park can make a big difference to the safety of your car and your belongings.”