(Vehicle break-in image via Shutterstock)
Winnipeg police have launched a new initiative in hopes of reminding people not to leave valuables inside their vehicles.
Police say most property crimes are crimes of opportunity, and vehicle owners can reduce their risk of being targeted by simply following a few tips.
As part of the All Valuables Removed initiative, police say to:
- Remove valuables and shopping bags from view — including loose change and electronic devices
- Don’t leave personal identification, vehicle registration/ insurance certificates, or credit cards in your vehicle
- Never leave your vehicle running and unattended
- Always close windows and lock all doors
- Never leave your car keys, house keys or garage door opener in your vehicle
- Park in well-lit areas with pedestrian traffic
Doing these things can help save you from reporting the theft, incurring insurance costs, missing work, and having to pay towing charges.
Thefts from motor vehicles increased from 6,482 in 2017 to 8,063 in 2018. The number of stolen vehicles also increased in 2018 to 2,797 from 2,327 a year prior.
