On Dec. 11 and 12, 2013, volunteers will be visiting the malls to speak to shoppers and merchants about the issue, and distributing crime prevention materials. Approximately 50 volunteers from Centre High Campus, Killarney Citizens Patrol, and the Community Police Radio Network, will take part in the anti-theft blitz at shopping districts in Clareview, Londonderry, Namao / Clearwater, and Northgate. Police will also be on the lookout for thieves.
“With Christmas around the corner there is an abundance of ‘gifts’ left in vehicles for window-shopping thieves,” says Const. Cathy Ruskin. “People are often in a rush to finish up their shopping and may not be aware that they may be at risk of having their property stolen. We want to let vehicle owners know that there are some simple steps that they can take to reduce these crimes of opportunity.”
Malls offer a target-rich environment for thieves. Thieves typically target the vehicles of shoppers parked outside malls that may have recent gift purchases or other valuables left in the vehicle’s interior in plain sight. Frequently stolen items include bags of gifts, wrapped presents / packages, electronics, as well as purses / wallets, iPods, smart phones, and even loose change.
Some tips for shoppers:
- Park in well-lit, highly-visible, high-traffic areas.
- Leave no valuables in view. Put your valuables in your trunk, take them with you, or leave them at home. Insert the “All Valuables Removed” card inside the driver’s side window (available at all EPS / AMA locations).
- Lock your vehicle doors, close all windows, and check them before you leave. Activate your car alarm.
- Do not leave your vehicle unattended if the keys are in the ignition and the engine is running. Do not leave a spare set of keys in your car.
- Check your vehicle upon your return.
- Report any suspicious persons or activities to police immediately by calling 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile device. If it is a crime in progress or a life-threatening emergency, call 911.
To learn more about how to protect your property from crime, please visit www.edmontonpolice.ca/crimeprevention.