For many auto thieves, there are two categories of cars: the easy target; and the one that’s not worth the trouble. Which type you own and operate is up to you. A few quick tips to keep you from becoming a victim of auto-related theft:
1. Take Your Keys: When you leave your keys in your car, it takes mere seconds for someone to enter your car and drive away. That “quick run” from your car into the store or house is more than enough opportunity for a thief to see you do a quick run out as they drive away in your car. Thieves know all the hiding spots for keys, but they won’t find them if you’ve taken them with you. Also, an unoccupied vehicle that is left running is an advertisement to thieves that the keys are still inside.
2. Lock Your Cars: A locked car is usually too much trouble for a thief, as it requires extra time and/or the commotion of breaking in, so it’s just easier to keep moving on in search for an unlocked car. Taking care to lock your car is one of the easiest crime prevention techniques and can make a big difference in reducing victimization and lowering crime rates.
3. Take your Stuff: A car can be filled with things that thieves would love to get their hands on – pieces of ID, cash, electronics, et cetera. Keep valuable items out of your car when you’re not in it, and, failing that, keep valuables out of view. That includes garage door openers as well as GPS systems. Your home address on a GPS system or ID could turn a theft from auto into a thief’s opportunity to find and enter your home.
The Regina Police Service thanks those who adopt these crime prevention techniques. We all have a role in community safety.