Residents in west central Saskatchewan are being asked to keep their vehicle doors locked and valuables removed after an increase in vehicle thefts in the region.
Onion Lake, Turtleford and Mainstone areas in the province have received reports of at least one vehicle theft per day over the past week and a half, according to Saskatchewan RCMP, who say that number is significant for smaller communities.
RCMP said many who have experienced these thefts did not have their cars locked or had left their keys inside when their vehicle was robbed. Spare change and items hidden in partially obscured areas of a vehicle are enough often to lead to theft.
These crimes of opportunity have police reminding residents to be mindful of what they leave in their cars, and remembering to secure their vehicles.
“It’s not enough to put your vehicle keys, or anything valuable, in a cup holder or behind a visor, you must remove them from your vehicle and lock the doors,” said staff sergeant Ken Burnouf.
“We must all work together to mitigate crime in our communities. We need the public to take that extra step to help keep their vehicles safe by securing them appropriately.”
RCMP also cautioned drivers to remove garage door openers from their vehicles. If stolen, this grants the thief access to the contents of our garage, and possibly your home if it’s attached. Vehicles that are stolen can also be connected to other criminal activity, Burnouf said, making it important to report vehicle thefts to police.
Anyone who wishes to report something missing or who has seen suspicious activity is asked to report it to Turtleford RCMP or call 911 in an emergency.