Vehicle thefts continue to keep south Bruce OPP officers busy, as they try to hammer home the message about keeping your keys with you.
In 2017, the detachment investigated 106 stolen vehicles, while the number stolen in the region in 2018 dropped to 84. So far this year, 11 vehicles have been stolen in South Bruce.
Police said the majority of the stolen vehicle cases across the province were preventable. This means that the vehicle was left unlocked, had the keys inside or was left running making it easy for thieves.
Thieves use stolen vehicles to go joyriding, commit another crime, or sell the vehicle.
The OPP are reminding motorists to keep valuables out of sight in their vehicles, and never leave your keys unattended.
Other methods of preventing your vehicle from being stolen include anti-theft devices such as wheel clubs, wheel boots, aftermarket ignition kill switches, or radio-frequency identification car immobilizers.
Install a remote car starter - Remote starters are designed to shut off if anyone attempts to drive the vehicle without a key. This will allow you to warm up your car without risk of theft.
Police stressed that theft is a crime of opportunity that you can help control if you #PocketYourKeys.
The Insurance Bureau of Canada has reported that each year, automobile theft costs Canadians close to $1 billion, including $542 million for insurers to fix or replace stolen vehicles.
The Insurance Bureau of Canada made a list of the top 10 stolen vehicles in 2018:
2007 FORD F350 SD 4WD PU 2006 FORD F350 SD 4WD PU 2005 FORD F350 SD 4WD PU 2004 FORD F350 SD 4WD PU 2003 FORD F350 SD 4WD PU 2006 FORD F250 SD 4WD PU 2001 FORD F350 SD 4WD PU 2000 FORD F250 SD 4WD PU 2015 LEXUS GX460 4DR AWD SUV 2001 FORD F250 SD 4WD PU
