You parked it right here. You are certain that this is the exact spot where you left your car. But as sure as you are you allow the thought that maybe it was across the street that you left it, or next block up. But those thoughts are more hope than doubt, you know you left your car here but it's not here now, so you hope in vain that you parked elsewhere and that's where it is, safe and sound, not stolen, but gone it is.

If you have ever returned to your to where your vehicle should be and found it missing you will know the mixture of emotions that sweep over you. Shock, anger, frustration and even embarrassment as you realize how you must look to others, as you stand shell-shocked at the curbside.

Car theft happens, it has happened for as long as there have been automobiles. Automobiles go missing from anywhere they are parked, the street, your driveway, a parking lot, airports, shopping malls, public buildings and even from locked garages.

Can car theft be prevented? You are never going to be able to guarantee that your car will never get stolen, but there is a heck of a lot you can do to cut down the chances.

Lock it when you leave it. It's only common sense, you lock your car of course you do. But what about those times when you are only going to be a few moments? What about when you are picking up the dry cleaning, or nipping into the convenience store to grab a bottle of wine to go with tonight's dinner? Quick, out the car and pick up the cleaning, how long are you going to be it can only take a few seconds. Except that there was someone ahead of you, he is making a fuss about the quality of the cleaning. OK, you are done and with your collected cleaning in your hands you are back outside.

Where's your car? It only took a few moments to collect your cleaning and for a thief to make off with your car.

Lock it when you leave it! Even if you are just leaving it for a minute. Make sure that your vehicle is locked all round and that the windows are wound up tight. And you would never leave your car with the keys in the ignition and the engine running would you!

Often we do not have much in the way of choice as to where we park. If the opportunity is there, park in a fee paying parking lot with a payment booth and security cameras. If the lot also has security guards patrolling then so much the better. Don't forget to take your ticket with you, do not leave it in the car, if a thief does break into your car he could use the ticket to get out of the lot.

OK, so you have no choice but to park on the street. Park somewhere that is heavily trafficked, avoid side streets and other quiet places where crooks could work on your car without eyes upon them. Sure a sophisticated car thief can break into your car without anyone noticing, but with most it would be obvious they are breaking in to your vehicle.

Park somewhere well lit, thieves hate being observed, and darkness gives them cover. Even if it is bright daylight when you park you may be returning to your car after nightfall, you could be delayed and be later than you think you will be.

Make full use of any anti-theft device and immobilizer your car has, make it a habit to use it every time that you leave your vehicle. If you don't have anti-theft prevention consider getting some fitted. Steering wheel locks and gearshift locks don't cost the earth and are good visible deterrents.

Applying the parking break and turning your wheels in towards the curb makes it difficult for thieves to tow away your car.

There is a lot more that you can do to prevent losing your car to criminals but if you follow the above, and learn other ways to protect your vehicle, you will greatly reduce your chances of falling victim to car thieves.