WHEN looking to purchase security products for vehicles it is always wise to check with a motoring organisation first before plumping for a device.

That's the advice of Birkenhead and Upton's crime prevention officer DC Dave Owen as the Globe Carwatch gets under way today.

And it's not as difficult as it sounds - for there are a number of information lines open for concerned drivers. often offering free and unbiased advice on all aspects of car security.

DC Owens says: "The two main motoring organisations - the AA and 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) are 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."

DC Owens 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 Consumers 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.

DC Owens 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 DC Owens 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."

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.