West Vancouver police are once again warning residents not to roll out the welcome mat for thieves after 41 thefts from vehicles were reported during the month of April.
In the majority of those – more than 62 per cent – people had left valuables including cellphones, wallets and iPads unattended in unlocked vehicles, said Const. Jeff Palmer, spokesman for the police department. Despite repeated advice, “People aren’t bothering to lock their cars,” said Palmer. He added even when cars are locked, “It’s not that hard to get through a car window. The best way to not have things of value stolen from your vehicle is to not leave things of value in your vehicle.”
Palmer said the thefts from vehicles have happened throughout West Vancouver, some of them taking place in daylight hours around 8 a.m. or 9 a.m. as would-be thieves walk through a neighbourhood trying car door handles. “That’s typical of theft from auto offences,” he added.
Palmer added the same considerations apply when out hiking local trails or spending time in parks, as vehicles parked near trailheads are also frequently targeted for thefts. “If you’re going for a hike or other outdoor activity, consider taking only the valuables that you’ll be comfortable carrying with you,” he said. Palmer added if leaving valuables in the trunk is unavoidable, put them there before arriving at your destination.
