(Today’s Northumberland file photo)
Police encourage vehicle owners to take steps to help protect their cars and valuables this holiday season.
Cobourg Police Service’s (CPS) Lock It or Lose It winter campaign encourages residents to take precautions to protect their vehicles and vehicle contents from theft by taking simple crime prevention steps.
As part of the initiative, CPS auxiliary members patrol residential areas and business parking lots to confirm cars are locked with no valuables left in view. A small notice is placed on vehicles offering simple crimeprevention tips or congratulating drivers who have taken the right steps.
Over 602 cars have been checked since the start of 2024. Of the vehicles checked, 174 did not meet the Lock It or Lose It standard, either being unlocked or having valuables in plain view.
The Lock It or Lose It campaign runs all year, with particular emphasis leading up to and during the holiday season.
Here are some tips to protect your vehicle and its contents:
• Ensure car doors are always locked, even when parked at home or exiting the vehicle for a moment.
• Park in well-lit areas.
• Never leave money in plain sight.
• Always roll up your car windows.
• Put shopping bags and other parcels in the trunk or bring them with you.
• Keep vehicle registration certificates and proof of insurance on you.
• Take all electronics, including your cell phone, with you.
• Don’t leave your car running unattended.
• If parking in the same lot often, park in different spots daily.
CPS encourages everyone to make it a routine to protect their vehicle against theft. Report suspicious activity or theft to police or Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS or visit stopcrimehere.ca. If you are in an emergency or witness a crime in progress, please call 9-1-1 immediately.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
