Vehicle number plate theft is one of the most common crimes committed - in Victoria some 20,000 are stolen each year - but there is a way everybody can make theirs secure.
Owners will be able to do that at Warragul from 9am until midday on Saturday, March 18, when for $5 they can have new "one way" screws fitted.
Baw Baw Neighbourhood Watch is conducting one of its two "operation Safe Plate" events for the year in the public car park in Mason St, Warragul, with local State Emergency Services volunteers helping with the installation.
BBNW treasurer and secretary David Piggin said number plates were the number one item stolen from cars.
"The stolen plates are then put onto stolen cars, which are used to commit a wide range of crimes - ram raids, petrol theft, burglaries, hoon driving and so on.
"And having your plates stolen is really inconvenient - notifying the police, notifying VicRoads, buying new plates - plus you will likely receive fines for speeding and failing to pay tolls.The thefts have to be reported to Victoria Police and arrangements made with VicRoads for replacements.
Stolen number plates are not renewed meaning new ones that are issued will require an update of registration details, insurance policies and roadside assist membership. Owners may also receive some unexpected traffic camera fines and toll charges that will require effort to have them reversed.
Warragul SES Unit Controller Paul Tandberg said safe plate events were a great chance for members to help the community while also raising funds for the unit.
"All profits from the event will go towards essential maintenance and equipment, making sure we are ready to support our community during storms, floods and other emergency events," Mr Tandberg said.
Mr Piggin said half of the $5 cost would go to the SES, the rest to meet the cost of the new special screws.