Campbell River Citizens on Patrol (COP) members were out in local parking lots on Wednesday conducting Lock it or Lose it searches.
It was the first action of a Christmas season campaign to combat thefts from vehicles.
The COP members were issuing crime prevention notices to vehicle owners who have left their property at risk of being stolen. Theft can be significantly reduced by eliminating opportunities often presented to criminals.
“We’re basically going and checking out all the vehicles to see if the doors are open,” said Jim Forsythe, COP president. “Just trying to make sure the security of the vehicle is there. We don’t want people to buy all those Christmas presents, put them in their cars and then get them stolen.”
Campbell River RCMP remind everyone that the way to protect property in your vehicle from thieves is to lock doors, close windows and keep valuables out of sight.
Some helpful tips to protect your property from theft include:
Always lock the doors when leaving your vehicle.
Ensure your windows are closed.
Ensure valuables are out of site if left in your vehicle during the day.
Do not leave valuables in your vehicle overnight.
Do not leave loose change inside of your vehicle.
COP members expected to be checking about 800 vehicles during Wednesday’s action.
The Lock it or Lose it program is supported by the RCMP and ICBC said RCMP Inspector Jeff Preston OIC of the Campbell River detachment. The RCMP remind everyone who witnesses anything they believe to be suspicious in nature to call (250) 286 6221 or, should you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers 1-800 222 8477 (TIPS).