Driving as a survival skill and the necessity to drive safe

you're a not a home owner, your car is probably the most valuable thing you do own. It is also the one most at risk. Having your car broken into or stolen is a distressing experience.

Types of theft vary from simple opportunist to professional stealing where theives work in gangs and target specific models to order, sometimes for a buyer overseas.

Car theft can leave you stranded far from home. There is the inconvenience of coping without your car while insurance claims are paid. Even if your car is returned to you, it may well be damaged and in need of repair before it can be driven again.

Good security acts as a deterrent, slowing theives down and forcing them to use tools that are hard to conceal. Visible security devices, such as those that lock the steering wheel and handbrake are easy to use. Etching your vehicle registration number and identification number on the windows can discourage theft.

Most manufacturers now fit immobolisers as standard, so do lock your doors, windows, boot and sunroof every time you leave your car, no matter how briefly. Take the ignition key with you even when you park on your driveway, call into the newsagents or refuel in a petrol station.

Keep valuables including mobile phones out of sight. Consider keeping all the doors locked and windows closed when driving in towns. Be vigilant when stationary such as at red traffics. If you are threatened, or a thief attempts to break in, lean on the horn.

Of course, driving is far more complicated than simply pressing pedals and turning the steering wheel; it also involves looking out for everyone else (and everything) on the road. The skill of safe driving is necessary to avoid collisions, which kill many thousands of people annually.And safe driving is much more than following the legally prescribed rules of the road. It goes beyond that into the cultivation of good habits, maintaining attention, and a thoughtful, cooperative attitude that avoids and prevents accidents. This is often described as defensive driving.