The Sarnia Police Service is reminding local shoppers that thieves will be doing some window shopping of their own this holiday season.
The Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police (OCAP) launched its annual "Lock It or Lose It" campaign earlier this month, which encourages drivers and passengers to take precautions to protect their vehicles and contents from theft, particularly during the holiday season.
Sarnia Cst. Nelson Amaral said thieves will be looking to take advantage of those who have left items in their vehicles in plain sight.
"Our thieves, they know what to look for -- cars that are unlocked, things that are in plain sight, gifts that are in the front seat or the back seat, they're looking for that as well. An easy smash-and-grab, whatever the case may be, keep them out of sight," he said. "Try your best to keep them out of sight, if you can, put it behind the seat or cover it up, and keep your keys out of the ignition or the key fob out of the vehicle."
Cst. Amaral said another way residents can protect themselves from theft is to park their vehicles in well-lit areas.
"I know a lot of us we don't want the door dings, so we park in a far away area, I'm guilty of that too, but around the holiday season, especially if you have valuables in your vehicle, you want your vehicle locked, valuables out of plain view, and try to keep it in a well lit, natural surveillance type of area."
Cst. Amaral said as part of the campaign, officers will be checking parked vehicles to make sure they are locked and that no valuables are in plain view. Drivers who have secured their vehicles will be left with a congratulatory notice on their windshield, while notices outlining prevention tips will be left with vehicles that don't meet the "Lock It or Lose It" standards.
Here are the OCAP's top 10 Lock It or Lose It tips:
- Ensure doors are always locked and the key is in your pocket
- Park in well-lit areas
- Never leave money in plain sight
- Always roll up your car windows
- Put shopping bags and other parcels in the trunk
- Ensure GPS is put in a safe, out-of-sight location
- Keep vehicle registration certificate and proof of insurance on you
- Take electronics, including your cellphone, with you
- Don't leave your car running unattended
- If parking in the same lot often, park in different spots each day
