LAC LA BICHE - August continues to be an awareness month for local RCMP when it comes to vehicle theft.
Lac La Biche RCMP Acting Detachment Commander Sgt. Trevor Cardinal says auto thefts in the region have increased by eight per cent over last year.
In the first six months of 2024, Lac La Biche RCMP have investigated 71 complaints of stolen vehicles. Cardinal says the average of at least 10 a month means that residents need to be vigilant at all times. He says that while the month of August is tagged as an awareness time, residents should be aware of the issue year-round.
"This August, and always, the Lac La Biche RCMP want to remind everyone of the proper precautions to prevent auto theft," he tells Lakeland This Week.
Cardinal and members of the detachment hope that a reminder and a list of suggestions can help to reduce the theft numbers in the second half of the year.
- Always lock your vehicle.
- Never keep personal belongings store in your vehicle.
- Keep important documents, including things with personal information, out of your vehicle.
- If possible, store your vehicle in a locked garage when you are not using it.
- Park in well-lit areas, or keep your porch light on to deter thieves.
- Install a tracking system or an alarm system in your vehicle.
- Install security cameras that has a clear view of your vehicle(s).
- Never leave your keys, loose change, or other valuable items in your vehicle.
The local RCMP boss says community support and common sense can help to reduce the opportunities for criminal activity.
"If we follow some of these simple tips it will prevent our vehicles from being stolen," he said, encouraging the public to contact the local RCMP or 911 if suspicious activity is witnessed. The Crime Stoppers tip line at 1-800-22-8477 is also a resource available.
