Vehicle thefts are a growing problem in Alberta and RCMP are offering some tips to help keep your vehicles safe.
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According to Alberta RCMP, summer is a busy time and many people are out enjoying the warm weather, which can lead to an increase of thefts of items and vehicles.
Mounties said the top three months for thefts of vehicles were March, May and June this year. Investigators said there were 790 vehicle stolen in March, 857 in May, and 750 in June.
Officers found that May, June and July were the top three months for thefts from vehicles, with 766 in May, 778 in June and 670 in July.
RCMP said there have been 4,500 thefts from vehicles reported in 2023 already and more than 5,000 vehicles have been reported stolen in the province.
Investigators said trucks have been the most commonly stolen vehicles in the province this year.
Alberta RCMP said a few simple tips could help reduce the chances of being a victim of theft.
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These tips include the basic ones of always locking your vehicle and never leaving the keys to the garage door openers in the vehicle.
RCMP also recommend you keep all valuables, including shopping bags, loose change, sunglasses and electronics, out of sight and always ensure the windows of your vehicle are closed.
If you can, officers advice you park in a well-lit area and within sight of your windows.
This month RCMP are using the #AutoRoutine hashtag to offer information on their social media channels to help keep your vehicles and valuables safe. You can find the tips by searching the hashtag #AutoRoutine or finding the Alberta RCMP Twitter or Facebook accounts. You can find them on Facebook by searching RCMP in Alberta and Twitter @RCMPAlberta.
tdosser@postmedia.com