Keeping Thieves Out Of Your Vehicle

In 2015, as part of a Crime Prevention Initiative, Chestermere RCMP will be taking steps to reduce the exposure of our community to an area of growing concern. That area of concern is theft from parked vehicles and left of vehicles.
In 2014, Chestermere RCMP had close to 90 cases of theft from vehicles and 44 cases where vehicles had been stolen. With our population increasing at an alarming rate, these numbers are likely to rise and our city could become a bigger target.
Research shows that thieves will steal vehicles for the following reasons: to get from one destination to another and then abandon the vehicle, to use the motor vehicle in other crimes such as break and enters and robberies, alter the VIN of the stolen motor vehicle and then either drive the vehicle themselves or sell the vehicle to an unsuspecting consumer or thieves may have a similar vehicle that they want to upgrade or repair damaged parts. They may also try and sell the vehicle parts on internet sites.
Here are some tools that you can use to keep your belongings and vehicles safe:
• Always remember to lock your vehicle when parked, close the windows and sunroof when the vehicle will be unattended. If you park your vehicle in a garage, make sure the overhead garage door and pedestrian door are locked as well. Do not leave a spare key hidden inside your vehicle.
• Do not leave your vehicle running while it is unattended and the key is in the ignition
• Be aware of where you park. Well lit parking lots and streets with lots of vehicular and pedestrian traffic will help to deter car thieves.
• Consider installing an aftermarket car alarm if your vehicle is not already equipped with one.
• Do not leave items in plain view in your vehicle. This includes parcels, cell phones, GPS devices, laptops, clothing or money.
Part of this initiative includes information ads and articles such as this one. The goal of the Chestermere RCMP is to educate the community with useful advice and information to assist in prevention and reduction of crime.
In the coming months, you may also see members of the Chestermere RCMP on foot and bike patrol in your neighbourhood checking parked vehicles to ensure they are secure. If you happen to find a brochure in your vehicle, this indicates that they found your vehicle unlocked. The RCMP officers will secure your vehicle and leave behind their brochure as a reminder. Please take the time to read this brochure as it has some useful information to help prevent the citizens of Chestermere from becoming victims of property crime.
If you see any suspicious behaviour, particularly around parked vehicles such as someone testing the doors or peeking inside, please report to the RCMP immediately.