Photo 119994553 © William Lowe | Dreamstime.com

By Nigel Maxwell

Crime

Cold weather criminals: Prince Albert Police concerned about vehicle thefts

Nov 26, 2024 | 6:00 AM

With temperatures decreasing, Prince Albert Police residents are hoping city residents don’t drop their guard and increase the risk having their vehicles stolen.

To the end of September there were 252 vehicle thefts in the city, which actually represented a decrease of 32.98 per cent from the previous year.

From November 1, 2023 to February 29, 2024 the Prince Albert Police Service received 145 reports of stolen vehicles.

“In many incidents, vehicles are often left running unattended or the keys are left inside the vehicle,” police said in a news release.

In the third quarter (July, August, September), there were 90 vehicle thefts.

Crime

Cold weather criminals: Prince Albert Police concerned about vehicle thefts

2h ago

top job

CEO suddenly parts ways with Northlands College

16h ago

Cautious optimism

STF encouraged by Throne Speech 'first steps' on education

16h ago

The Prince Albert Police Service is advising the public of some tips for the winter months to prevent vehicle-thefts relating to vehicle warmup.

– Use a remote starter or stay inside your vehicle as it warms up

– Ensure your vehicle is locked at all times, including after using a remote starter

– Use a steering wheel lock

– Never leave your primary or spare set of keys inside your vehicle

– Completely close all windows and doors

– Park in well-lit areas after dark

– Activate your vehicle alarm system

Another way of helping prevent vehicle theft is ensuring valuable items are not left inside your vehicle, such as:

– Cellphones

– Other electronics

– Jewelry

– Personal documents

– Clothing and shopping packages

– Garage door opens

– Visible money

The Prince Albert Police Service encourages members of the public to report crime and or suspicious activity by calling 306-953-4222; or submitting a tip anonymously to Crime Stoppers. Tips can also be submitted anonymously online.

In 62 occurrences this year, investigations resulted in criminal charges.

—

nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell