Thefts from vehicles on the rise in West Vancouver

Police is asking citizens to be cautious when it comes to auto crime as theft from vehicles has seen a spike in West Vancouver.

In West Vancouver, theft from vehicles has seen a 5.5 per cent increase in 2018, compared to last year.

In fact, that number has been on the rise all over the province. According to statistics released by IMPACT, incidents of theft from vehicles in British Columbia increased in 2018 by 4.2 per cent when compared to 2017.

In contrast, theft of autos decreased in 2018 by 13.2 per cent.

 April is Auto Crime Enforcement Month, and West Vancouver Police along with the Integrated Municipal Provincial Auto Crime Team (IMPACT) are encouraging everyone to take precautionary steps to ensure they don’t become the next victim of auto-related crime.

This year’s theme also ties into the international crime prevention initiative, called the ‘9 pm Routine’.  The ‘9 pm Routine’, created by the Pasco Sheriff’s Office from Pasco County, Florida, encourages residents to secure their valuables and lock their vehicle doors, daily at 9 pm.

By encouraging the 9 pm Routine, West Vancouver Police and IMPACT aim to reduce the occurrences of thefts from auto and reduce auto crime in British Columbia.

Participating in the ‘9pm Routine’ takes a few simple steps:

• Leave nothing in plain sight
• Remove valuables and personal items
• Lock and secure your vehicle
• Make a daily habit to do this by 9 pm each night

If possible, park your vehicle in a well-lit area and install sensor lights on your home or property nearby driveways. Consider installing surveillance cameras on your property where vehicles will be parked.

“We often find that people don’t take the time to ensure their vehicles are locked, when left unattended,” says WVPD Detective Corporal Kellie English. “Taking a few precautionary steps will greatly reduce the chances of becoming a victim.”