Cranbrook RCMP is urging residents to make sure their belongings are safe and locked up after the department saw a rise in theft from vehicles.
Police officials say the Cranbrook detachment received 68 reports from July to September, compared to 24 in the previous quarter.
“We know that this is a preventable crime. If people are forced to break windows or draw attention to themselves, they will be more likely to be apprehended,” said Staff Sgt. Barry Graham, Cranbrook RCMP detachment commander.
“When they can inconspicuously open a vehicle door and rummage through, they can get through a lot of vehicles to get what they want.”
Graham says a simple ‘9PM Routine’ is an easy way to keep your belongings safe.
“It basically means setting up a reminder to lock up your valuables and your doors. It makes it difficult for people to take your property,” said Graham.
“The increase in thefts from vehicles and break and enters, it’s going to hit more people. If you can keep up a 9PM Routine, the likelihood it’ll happen to you is a lot lower.”
Police say the 9PM Routine involves the following actions:
- Locking your doors (both vehicles and residence)
- Removing valuables, spare keys, and garage door openers from vehicles
- Securing any garages and sheds
- Storing yard tools and recreational equipment safely
- Activating exterior lights and security systems
Graham says the rise in incidents is not unique to Cranbrook, and is often a crime of opportunity.
“Removing valuables in plain sight in an unlocked vehicle or around your home in an important step in deterring crime,” said Graham,
“Don’t make yourself an easy target. By taking part in the 9PM Routine and securing your property, you are making a significant contribution to reducing and preventing property crime in our community.”
Graham says using a daily reminder on a cellphone or other electronic device can help you keep on top of building a 9PM Routine.
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