POLICE have issued advice to help people avoid becoming victims of opportunist crimes as they enjoy Wiltshire beauty spots this summer.

Thieves are known to target beauty spots and police are warning that by leaving valuables in full view car owners are advertising for criminals to help themselves.

Scenic areas are vulnerable to theft because the places are often isolated and much of the time there is no one around to witness the offence.

Vehicle owners are urged to follow the advice below: * When parking, try to leave the car where it is overlooked from the road, neighbouring buildings or an area such as a picnic site where other people can act as natural guardians.

* Try to park near to other vehicles. * Satellite navigation systems are an increasing object of desire to criminals. If you have a portable system always take it with you when you leave the car, together with the support cradle and suction pads. And remember to wipe away any suction pad marks left on the windscreen or dashboard as thieves will look out for these.

* Don’t leave satnavs or other valuables such as purses or handbags in the glove compartment or try to hide anything under the seat – thieves will check these areas first.

* Mark your satellite navigation equipment system and any other ‘in-car’ entertainment systems such as audio and video players with your postcode and house number. Remember also to register it at www.immobilise.com.

* Make a note of the make, model and serial number of the equipment and keep the note somewhere safe – not in the car.

* Lock all doors and windows, not forgetting the sunroof, when leaving your car.

* Don’t leave anything on view in your car. Thieves are opportunists and it only takes a moment to break in. Remember that even an empty bag or a coat left on a back seat of a locked car can be sufficiently tempting for a thief to smash a window. So, whenever you can, take property with you when you leave the car but if this really is impossible, lock it in the boot out of sight.