Huron County OPP officers are pleading with motorists to just lock their vehicles when they park.
Statistics show that between June 1 and July 7, 19 vehicles were stolen in the county, or one every other day. A whopping 84 per cent (16 out of 19) of the stolen vehicles were left unlocked or not secured in any fashion and to make it even easier for the thieves, nearly all of the stolen vehicles had the keys left in them.
Trucks were the most popular target with 13 stolen. Three cars, two motor-bikes and one All-Terrain Vehicle were also stolen. 13 of the vehicles were stolen from urban areas and six were taken from rural properties.
The majority of the vehicles were stolen under the cover of darkness between the hours of 9 p.m. and 6 a.m., as 15 were stolen at night, versus four taken during daylight hours.
Stolen vehicles are just the start of the problem since these desperate thieves often use the vehicle to commit other crimes in our community such as driving dangerously, failing to stop for police, using the vehicle to transport illegal drugs and using it as a means of transportation to commit break, enter and thefts.
Not only are owners failing to lock up their vehicles they are routinely failing to remove valuables from their vehicle. Items such as power tools, electronic devices, purses, wallets, sunglasses, passports, medication and loose change are commonly stolen.
"We are asking for the public to help us reduce these opportunistic thefts. Please think twice before leaving your vehicle unlocked, with the keys readily accessible. Changing your routine, by securing your vehicle and pocketing your keys, can go a long way in preventing these thefts. Don't take unnecessary risks. Together, with your help, we can curb the number of stolen vehicles and associated crimes. We can't do it alone, so please Help Us, Help You," said Huron County OPP Staff Sergeant Dave Sinko.
CRIME PREVENTION TIPS
Always lock your vehicle doors and windows. Never leave your keys in the vehicle or in an easily accessible area Never leave your vehicle unattended while it is running If you have a garage, use it and lock the garage as well as your vehicle inside Always park your vehicle in a well-lit area Never leave valuable objects or packages in full view. Put them in the trunk if you have to leave them in your vehicle. Never leave your purse or wallet in your vehicle. For more crime prevention tips and information on the Lock it or Lose It program visit www.opp.ca.
