Airdrie RCMP remind public to not leave running vehicles unattended

Airdrie RCMP want to remind the public to not leave their vehicles unattended while they are running. These vehicles are easy targets for theft.

With the recent cold snap, the Airdrie RCMP are urging citizens to be careful when warming up their vehicles. Car thieves actively look for easy vehicles to steal. Vehicles that are left running and unlocked outside of homes, grocery stores, or even gas stations make for easy targets for criminals. In only takes a few seconds for someone to sit in the driver’s seat and take off. These vehicle thefts are often preventable.

The following advice is provided by the Airdrie RCMP to help thwart vehicle theft and reduce crime:

1. Do not leave vehicles running. If you must leave it running, consider using a club-like device or a remote starter to deter thieves.

2. Lock your vehicle. Most vehicle thefts and thefts from vehicles occur to vehicles that are left unlocked.

3. Remove all valuables from your vehicle. Out of sight, out of mind approach.

4. Report any suspicious activity you might see in your neighbourhood. This is an excellent way to help reduce crime within the community.

5. Try to park your vehicle in well-lit areas. Turn on your residential exterior lights and help light up the area.

If you have information about any crime, please call the Airdrie RCMP at 403-945-7200 or call your local police. If you want to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), by internet at www.tipsubmit.com, or by SMS (check your local Crime Stoppers www.crimestoppers. ab.ca for instructions).