A rash of recent vehicle break-ins in the area has our local police using a familiar phrase: “Lock it or Lose it.”
Constable Brianna Roberge says Renfrew and Arnprior OPP have seen a number of cases where the keys had been left inside the car with the doors unlocked.
As the warming weather means people are beginning to leave their cars, ATV’s, and other vehicles parked and unattended outside, Cst. Roberge is urging residents to protect themselves from would-be bandits looking to nab either the car itself or what’s inside it.
Valuable items like tablets, electronics, cell phone cables, tools, jewelry or even spare change left in a visible location can make your car an appealing target.
She adds that depending on your insurance policy, the stolen items or the damage done to the vehicle might not be covered, costing the victim even if the car is recovered.
Vehicle owners and passengers can do simple things to decrease the risk of being victimized, such as:
- Never leave a running vehicle unattended, even when making a quick stop at a store,
- Lock your doors,
- Roll up your windows,
- Keep valuables out of sight,
- Keep your registration and proof of insurance in your wallet or purse,
- Pocket your keys, and
- At night or during extended parking periods, always park in a well-lit area
(written by Kasey Egan)
