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The St. Thomas Police Service is committed to helping city residents keep their vehicles safe from theft and has released a series of tips on how to protect your vehicle.
Samantha Wakefield, Corporate Communications Coordinator with the service spoke with myFM about preventing auto theft.
How to protect your vehicle:
1. Lock your doors
You should always make sure your vehicle is locked, even when it’s parked in your driveway.
2. Use security devices
Security devices such as steering wheel locks, dash cameras, and Faraday bags can help to deter thieves.
3. Invest in built-in security
Consider vehicles with built in security measures, such as immobilizers that prevent unauthorized ignition, when purchasing a new car.
4. Use a tracking or security system
Installing a tracking device or security cameras can help police recover your vehicle faster.
5. Don’t leave your car running
During the winter months, leaving your car running to warm it up is not recommended.
6. Report stolen vehicles immediately
If your vehicle is stolen, reporting it immediately will increase the chances of it being recovered.
As well as these tips, St. Thomas police have also shared results from the local 2024 crime analysis:
- – A motor vehicle is stolen once every eight days in St. Thomas
- – Mondays and Tuesdays are the most common days for auto theft
- – Most thefts occur in the overnight hours
The St. Thomas Police Service has also released a new educational video in their series on the topic of auto theft.
The video can be found at https://youtu.be/HfIYOjXTPmY?si=Ns3ZBAc1ksfbgDOj
Written by Emily Ryckman, myFM/Parkside Collegiate co-op student
