Ponoka RCMP are launching a campaign to help reduce and prevent property crimes.
“In an effort to reduce crime in our neighbourhoods our officers will be battling the cold and making foot patrols in areas most affected by property crime,” said Sgt. Erin St-Cyr, Ponoka RCMP acting detachment commander, in a press release.
“Officers will be securing property left unlocked and leaving educational material with the vehicle to assist residents from becoming victims.”
RCMP, working in conjunction with analysts, will determine areas that are most affected by property crime.
Officers will be assigned to increase patrols in areas most affected. Additionally, officers making foot patrols will be checking car doors and securing vehicles left unlocked.
“Theft of, and from, vehicles hurts everyone,” stated the release. “Everyone has a part to play in reducing property crime in their neighbourhoods. By securing car doors, theft becomes more difficult for would-be thieves trying to take advantage of easy targets.”
Prevention tips:
- Remove IDs, vehicle registration, insurance certificates and cards from your vehicle.
- Remove keys from the vehicle.
- Hide valuables like loose change and electronic devices from view.
- Keep shopping bags out of sight.
- Never leave your vehicle running while unattended.
- Always close windows and lock all doors.
If you have been a victim of property crime, or have information on criminal activity, please contact the Ponoka RCMP at 403-783-4471. If you want to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.