WEST Vancouver police are hoping thieves walk away with no presents this Christmas, not even coal.
Between Nov. 10 and Nov 14, police received three reports of theft from autos and one report of a theft from a purse. All of the incidents were described as "crimes of opportunity" and preventable.
In two incidents, purses were stolen out of vehicles, one of which wasn't locked. The third saw a global positioning system stolen. In the fourth, the purse was stolen from a coffee shop patron who was sitting next to the bag at the time.
Police are warning shoppers to be extra careful with holiday purchases in December and to keep purses and wallets with them at all times and not place them on a chair or in a shopping cart. Shoppers should also avoid carrying cash and make photocopies of all credit cards and record serial numbers, makes and models of personal property.
To prevent theft from cars, drivers should ensure they lock their vehicle, don't leave valuables inside, including in the trunk. Parking in a well-lit area, as well as using a vehicle alarm or anti-theft device can also discourage thieves.
