Ladysmith RCMP are reminding the public to ensure they remove any valuables and lock their vehicles when unattended after the detachment received 10 reports of theft from vehicles in the Christie Road area of Ladysmith this past weekend.
In each instance, vehicles were unlocked and items such as cash, headphones, laptops, jewellery and wallets were stolen. Police are advising people not to leave any property in their vehicles.
“If you do this, it may be gone when you return later,” the RCMP said in a statement. “Thieves will break in for as little as a few coins or a cigarette lighter. Typical items stolen from vehicles include purses, wallets, credit cards, GPS units, passports, house keys, cash, clothing and sunglasses. If you absolutely must leave items in your vehicle, secure them in the trunk. Many thieves routinely check the glove box and under the seat for hidden items.”
Police are also suggesting that people not leave any personal identification in an unattended vehicle.
“This includes a driver’s licence, financial documents, credit/debit information or any mail that could identify who you are,” the RCMP said. “You could become a victim of identity theft. Often, the thieves are only taking identification and credit cards from purses, but leave the purse behind. The owner may not realize a theft has occurred until much later. Once armed with a few cards, thieves are then able to apply for and receive: loans in your name, additional credit cards, and cash advances. If you don’t notice the theft for a number of days, the damage done could be extensive.”
The police are urging people not to keep their garage door openers in their vehicle along with any identifying information.
“That could result in leading the suspects directly to your residence,” they said.
The RCMP are also advising that people invest in a good anti-theft device, particularly a passive immobilizer, to use a steering wheel lock every time you park your vehicle, and to make sure you set the alarm on your vehicle when you leave it.
They also recommend people secure their licence plates with bolts because criminals commonly steal licence plates and use them to avoid being identified while committing other crimes.
“Make sure that all of your doors and windows are locked,” they said. “It only takes a few minutes for a thief to get a vehicle running, even without the keys. Double check your doors are locked on your car every night, either by physically going to check it, or by using your fob. If you see any suspicious persons or activities near a vehicle, call the police immediately. Report suspicious activity while it is happening. Try to get a description of the suspects and their vehicle (including licence plate). Do not confront the suspects. Let the police determine if it’s a crime in progress.”
