For the third year in a row, volunteers wearing Santa hats will be speaking to shoppers about the issue, distributing anti-theft brochures, and handing out candy canes to the shoppers who remember to lock up their vehicles.
“At Christmas, malls attract the naughty and the nice, and we typically see a 25 per cent increase in theft from vehicles,” says Const. Cathy Ruskin. “People are often in a rush and forget to lock their vehicles, and we find that about 50 per cent of the reported thefts involve unlocked vehicles. Simple steps like locking your vehicle and removing your valuables can reduce these crimes of opportunity, and make for a much more enjoyable holiday season.”
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.