Strathcona County, Alberta – On Tuesday October 3, 2018 Strathcona County RCMP and Strathcona County Citizens On Patrol (COP) volunteers did crime prevention inspections on 374 vehicles parked at Millennium Place, as part of the Lock it or Lose it public education campaign. Volunteers did not try doors or touch vehicles, other than to leave a report card at the vehicle, flagging temptations that might encourage a thief to break into the vehicle or try to steal it.
During the October 3, 2018 check, 90 drivers left possessions or cash in plain view, 45 left electronics on visible display,61 had a garage door opener in plain view, 1 wallet and 2 purses in view. 179 vehicles got a positive report cards indicating they have taken care to prevent being a victim of auto crime.
“Most criminals seek out crimes of opportunity. Leaving valuables in plain sight, or in an unlocked vehicle can provide that opportunity,” said Cst. Chantelle Kelly of the Strathcona County RCMP. “Don't allow criminals access to your personal belongings like wallets or ID cards left behind in your car. This increases your risk of being further victimized by identity theft over and above theft of property."
Tips to protect your vehicle and its contents:
- Ensure doors are always locked and the key is in your pocket.
- Park in well-lit areas.
- Never leave money in plain sight.
- Always roll up your car windows.
- Put shopping bags and other parcels in the trunk.
- Ensure GPS is put in a safe, out-of-sight location.
- Take electronics, including your cellphone, with you.
- Don’t leave your car running unattended.
- Strathcona County RCMP is also encouraging motorists to make a nightly routine of checking their vehicle before heading to bed. By ensuring the doors are locked, windows are up, and valuables have been brought inside their residence, motorists can help decrease the chance of a theft occurring.
The Lock it or Lose it campaign is part of ongoing crime reduction work by Strathcona County RCMP and its crime prevention partners.