Calgary, Alta. – Now that spring is here, we are seeing a lot more hikers, bikers and other outdoor enthusiasts in the mountain park areas. The RCMP is reminding motorists to lock up their valuables when leaving vehicles unattended in parking lots. The RCMP has seen a recent increase in the number of reported thefts from vehicles parked at park trail heads and parking lots.
” Theft is a crime of opportunity. Everyone knows there are bears out there and we all know how to keep our picnic baskets safe. We want people to realize that there may also be thieves out there looking for a quick score,” said Corporal Michael Magee of the Kananaskis RCMP Detachment. ” Having valuables visible in your vehicle makes it easy for thieves to drive up, do their thing and drive away, leaving you to pick up the pieces of your broken car window.”
The RCMP also encourages victims of theft to report the incident to police. The information provided may not result in your items being retrieved, but may provide police with key information about criminal activity in a particular area.
There are a few tips to ensure you can avoid being the next victim.
- Hide your valuables, or simply take them with you;
- If you are storing items like electronic devices in your trunk, be sure to stow the accessories like cords as well;
- Do not keep spare keys in or around your vehicles;
- Keep your doors and windows locked;
- Park in public areas;
- Try to stow your valuables before you park, experienced thieves may be watching.