Vehicle break-ins can be avoided this season

By Toyin Obatusin - Lethbridge Herald Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on November 23, 2024.

Herald photo by Toyin Obatusin Parked vehicles line the road this week in front of the shops and restaurants along 6 Street downtown. The Lethbridge Police Service is encouraging community members to take precautions to safeguard their vehicles from being targeted this season.

With the Christmas season just around the corner, community members are likely to encounter theft or hear about it.

The Lethbridge Police Service is encouraging community members to follow these steps to safeguard their vehicles from being targeted this season.

If you don’t have access to a garage, or underground parking, it is recommended that you park in a well lit area and double check that your doors are locked, including your trunks, after you exit the vehicle. Do not leave valuables like phone chargers, sunglasses, jewelry, bags or wallets.

Although your registration and insurance is assumed to automatically go into your glovebox, Sgt. Leanne Christos is advising the community to avoid doing this. Criminals are able to use these documents against you by impersonating you, and stealing your identity.

If accessible, leave valuables in the trunk/boot of the vehicle. If a thief cannot view valuables through the glass of your vehicle, they may not find a reason to break in.

Do not leave your car left running if you are not in the driver’s seat, and lock your doors upon entry of the vehicle. Avoid any negative encounters with potential thieves by not intervening. After the theft has occurred, call 911.

Dominic Schamuhn, manager of advocacy at the Lethbridge branch of the Alberta Motor Association, warns that “Many of these thefts are just pure crimes of opportunity and if the thief has the opportunity to steal a vehicle or take your valuables, it really takes a moment for them to do that”.

Anything that looks like it would be valuable, including shopping bags, are invitations to a thief. Preventative measures are a great way to avoid being a target, but does not guarantee safety.