WHEN buying security products for vehicles - it is always wise to check with a motoring organisation before plumping for a specific device.

That's the advice of community safety officer PC Tony Crompton who says that there are a number of information lines open for concerned drivers.

And many of them will offer free and un-biased advice on all aspects of car security as people become more aware of car crime and the effect it has on motorists.

He told SUM: "The two main motoring organisations - the AA and the RAC - can both advise drivers on all aspects of vehicle safety including approved security products, car park schemes, driving habits and route planning to name but a few.

"The Association of British Insurers (ABI) is also on hand to offer insurance advice and there are also databases provided by CCN and HPI which list cars that people should avoid when buying second hand - including stolen and written-off vehicles."

Tony adds that the database lines are well worth a call to avoid losing money when buying second hand 'cut and shut' vehicles ( two cars welded into one ).

There is also the Consumer's Association who regularly publishes vehicle related articles in the Which? magazine and annual car supplements and the Home Office Crime Prevention Publicity department can also offer a wide range of free booklets on car crime prevention.

Tony went on: "Sold Secure and Thatcham security product testers can inform drivers of the best devices to buy and the vehicle industry have their own national security helpline offering details of approved fitters of security goods."

With numerous ports of call for concerned motorists Tony says that people should never be hesitant about getting in touch.

"People can always contact myself for advice as well and it is well worth while if it saves money and heartache in the future if the right products are not fitted."

Advice can be obtained from:

AA - 0990 500600 RAC - 0990 722722 Association of British Insurers (ABI) - 0171 600 3333 CCN - 0800 234999 HPI - 01722 422422 The Consumers Association - 0800 252100 The Home Office Crime Prevention Publicity Department - 0171 273 2193 Sold Secure - 0500 192192 Thatcham - 01635 868855 Vehicle Security National Helpline - 0990 502006 PC Tony Crompton - 856 7546 or 856 7777.

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