Crime Prevention 
Protect Your Property
On September 14, the Winnipeg Police Service issued a public advisory about leaving valuables in plain view when parking your vehicle.
Following is an expanded list of tips to keep in mind when leaving your vehicle unoccupied:
When your vehicle is unoccupied:
- Always try to park in well-lighted and busy areas. This is important for both your personal safety and the protection of your vehicle and its contents.
- All doors should be locked and the windows closed. Never leave the motor running or the key in the ignition, as this is an open invitation to a car thief.
- Do not leave packages or property in plain view inside your vehicle. Keep the vehicle clean and empty of personal items that may attract thieves.
- Do not keep any papers with personal information such as names, addresses and phone numbers in the vehicle. This includes your vehicle registration, which should always be carried with your driver’s licence. Other drivers of the vehicle should carry a photocopy of your vehicle’s registration.
- Never use your name on a licence plate or key chain, as this identifies you to strangers.
- Never hide an extra vehicle key under the hood or on the vehicle. Car thieves know all the places to look.
- When approaching your parked vehicle, have the key ready. Take a quick look at the vehicle to ensure it has not been damaged or broken into, and no one is waiting inside. Then quickly open the door, get in, and lock the door immediately.
- When carrying children and groceries/parcels to your vehicle, place children in the vehicle first, and then load your groceries or parcels. For extra precaution, ask a store employee to accompany you to your car.
- Do not start the car until you are behind the steering wheel.
- NEVER LEAVE CHILDREN OR ANIMALS IN AN UNOCCUPIED VEHICLE!
Always Remember…
If you observe suspicious activity in a parking lot or in your neighbourhood contact police immediately.
Additional Crime Prevention Information is available here.
Last update:
September 14, 2012
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