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 crime-prevention tips or congratulating drivers who have taken the right steps.
Over 350 cars have been checked since the start of the winter campaign.
• 74 vehicles did not meet the Lock It or Lose It standard, either being unlocked or having valuables in plain view.
• Items left in the open included: cell phones, handbags, navigation devices, gifts and gift bags.
• One vehicle had a window left open.
The Lock It or Lose It campaign runs all year with a particular emphasis leading up to and during the holiday season. Targeted Lock it or Lose it canvasing is also done throughout the year if crime trends dictate.
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.
The Cobourg Police Service encourages everyone to make it a routine to protect their vehicle against theft. If you see something suspicious or you had something stolen from your vehicle, report online by visiting the Cobourg Police Service website cobourgpoliceservice.com/online-reporting. If you witness an in-progress theft, 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
