RCMP provides tips to prevent vehicle thefts

ALBERTA -- Alberta RCMP are offering tips in hopes of reducing vehicle thefts this summer.

Some of their tips for the public include never leaving running vehicles unattended, always keeping vehicles locked, and never leaving keys, garage door openers, or important documents inside your vehicle. RCMP Corporal Troy Savinkoff also recommends parking in well-lit areas.

"Where you park your equipment, your trailers and vehicles, make sure there's a lot of lighting," said Cpl. Savinkoff. "Thieves don't like to work in the light, they like to work in the shadows, so just by making sure you're parking underneath some light could be enough of a deterrent." 

For recreational vehicles, Savinkoff encourages residents to install motion sensor lights, and to always secure trailers with a hitch lock.

"Make sure that hitch lock is of good quality," said Cpl. Savinkoff. "In my own experience with policing, we do see that cheap hitch locks are very easy for thieves to break off of a vehicle. So have something with some thickness to it, that isn't easy to break."

Here's a rundown of the full list of the RCMP's tips on how you can keep your vehicle secure this summer.

• Keep your vehicle locked: While relaxing at your campsite, or taking a walk by the water, keep your vehicle locked. It only takes one moment of inattention for a thief to take your belongings.
• Never leave your vehicle running unattended: Opportunistic thieves can strike anywhere, a quick pop into the convenience store for a Slurpee, or just running into the bank, is all the time someone needs to steal a running vehicle.
• Keep keys safe: Never leave keys, garage door openers, or important documents with personal identifying information in your vehicle. Keys can be used to steal your vehicle, or may be used, along with personal identifying information, to enter your home.
• Hide or lockup valuables: Keep your campsite clean and ensure valuables are hidden out of sight as they can entice opportunistic thieves. Keep off-highway vehicles (OHV), bikes, and kayaks secured and consider using window covers to conceal the interior of your vehicle.
• Close windows: When leaving your vehicle, always close the windows, even when it’s hot outside. A locked screen door to a recreational vehicle can provided added security while allowing airflow.
• Use hitch lock: Secure your trailer’s hitch with a hitch lock to prevent towing theft.
• Motion sensor lights: Install motion sensor lights outside your recreational vehicle.

Vehicle thefts can occur anywhere, from residential areas, to campsites, and trailheads.