With summer in full swing, local authorities are warning residents to make sure they are protecting their property.
Officials with Chatham-Kent Crime Stoppers say residents can take simple precautions to protect themselves, their valuables, and their vehicles from crimes of opportunity.
“Auto theft is a very real problem for people, especially those who may be travelling. We want to help remind people to keep their vehicle protected in order to reduce the incentives criminals have to steal from you,” said Erica McIntosh, Coordinator with Chatham-Kent Crime Stoppers in a news release.
Drivers are advised to always lock their doors, roll up windows, and remove all valuables, including loose change, from plain sight.
Officials say when shopping or vacationing, people should park in well-lit areas, place purchases in the trunk before arriving at a destination, and consider having someone move driveway vehicles to make the home look occupied.
Owners of newer models should also guard against electronic theft by storing proximity key fobs in signal-blocking pouches and manually locking doors to prevent signal interception.
Statistics show despite recent decreases in theft rates, auto theft still costs Canadians an estimated $900 million annually.