Festive Season Car Protection Tips

Visiting family over the festive season should be a time of joy and reconnection — not stress over whether your car will still be there in the morning. With increased movement, crowded streets, and sometimes unsecured parking, car theft tends to spike over holiday periods. As a security-conscious driver, especially in Roodepoort, Randburg or the greater Johannesburg area, it’s important to adopt smart overnight parking strategies and anti-theft measures. At Accend Security, we focus on delivering home and business security — and the same principles can help keep your vehicle safe too. accendsecurity.co.za+1

Below are practical, effective steps to protect your car — and your peace of mind — while you visit family this season.

Why Holiday Season Means Higher Risk

During festive holidays, many households go away or host guests, leaving vehicles parked for extended periods. Thieves exploit this: unattended cars in less-monitored neighbourhoods, often outside residential homes, become easy targets.

In South Africa — including Gauteng — car theft and smash-and-grab incidents increase in busy holiday periods. Local data and insurance statistics show that thieves frequently target cars parked in driveways or on streets overnight, especially when owners are visiting friends or travelling. Using proven prevention strategies can drastically reduce that risk.

Smart Overnight Parking Strategies

Park in Secure, Well-Lit or Guarded Areas

Always aim to park in a secure, well-lit area — ideally within a gated driveway, a garage or a parking area with surveillance. If you’re visiting family and they don’t have a garage, consider asking whether you can park inside their property, ideally behind locked gates.

When that isn’t possible, choose a spot close to a busy street, near street lights, or under a light where neighbours or passers-by might notice suspicious activity. Studies show that well-lit, visible parking reduces the likelihood of theft. protectacar.co.za+2Cartrack+2

Avoid Leaving Your Car Unmonitored for Days

If you’re going to stay away for several days, avoid leaving your car parked unattended outside. Instead, use a secure garage or paid parking facility if possible. Controlled-access parking lots — ideally with barriers, surveillance cameras or security personnel — offer far greater protection than street parking. protectacar.co.za+2PSNI+2

Double-Check Locks, Windows, and Keys

Before leaving your vehicle, make sure all doors and windows are locked. Never leave spare keys inside the car. In some cases, thieves target homes to steal car keys. So, hide keys safely at home — not near windows or doors where they could be easily spotted. Hollard+2South African Police Service+2

Remove or Hide Valuables from View

Visible valuables — like handbags, laptops, phones, or paperwork — can attract opportunistic thieves. Always take such items with you, or place them in the boot or glove compartment before arrival. Even small items like sunglasses or loose change can draw attention. protectacar.co.za+2Police UK+2

Anti-Theft Devices & Safeguards to Consider

Fit a Reliable Alarm System or Immobiliser

One of the most effective deterrents is a car alarm or immobiliser. Alarms with loud sirens alert neighbours and scare off thieves early. Immobilisers — such as fuel-cut devices or gear locks — make it harder for thieves to start or drive off with your car. PSNI+2Imotonews.co.za+2

Use Steering Wheel Locks or Pedal/Brake Locks

Mechanical anti-theft devices like steering-wheel locks, gear locks or brake/pedal locks add an extra layer of protection. They make the vehicle harder and more time-consuming to steal — often enough to deter opportunistic theft. protectacar.co.za+2RAC+2

Consider GPS Trackers or Tracking Systems

Installing a GPS tracker improves your chances of recovering a stolen vehicle. Many modern tracking systems can alert you (or the authorities) the moment the car moves — and sometimes even allow remote immobilisation. In high-risk areas, this can be a real lifesaver. RAC+2Imotonews.co.za+2

Add Motion-Sensing Lighting or Security Cameras at Home

If you plan to park at a family home, consider investing in lighting or a CCTV system around the driveway or parking area. At Accend Security, we install smart CCTV, motion detectors, outdoor beams and electric fences — all of which provide added peace of mind. accendsecurity.co.za+1

Such visible security measures deter criminals before they even approach the vehicle. And if something happens, video evidence can support police investigations. RAC+1

Why Choose Accend Security for Home & Car Safety

Accend Security specialises in comprehensive security solutions across Roodepoort and Randburg. Whether you require CCTV systems, electric fences, motion detectors, outdoor beams or professional monitoring, we tailor solutions to meet your property’s needs. accendsecurity.co.za+1

By installing surveillance and deterrence systems at homes where you plan to park overnight, you make your car far less vulnerable. The presence of visible security equipment — lights, cameras, alarms — often discourages criminal targeting.

Additionally, we offer 24/7 support, so you can rest easy even when you’re away visiting family. accendsecurity.co.za+1

Final Thoughts: Combine Smart Habits with Smart Security

Protecting your car during the festive season doesn’t rely on a single measure. The best protection arises from combining sensible parking habits with layered security: lock the car, hide valuables, park in safe, well-lit or guarded spots — and equip your property with visible deterrents.

If you live in or near Roodepoort or Randburg, consider contacting Accend Security for a tailored quote and installation. A small investment in security systems can save you far greater cost and grief later — and let you enjoy the holidays with confidence and peace of mind.

For more information, visit our services page: Home CCTV, Alarm Systems, Electric Fences. accendsecurity.co.za+1

Recent Posts:

Protecting Your Car from Theft While Visiting Family This Festive Season