The RCMP in Ladysmith is urging people to remove valuables and keep their vehicles locked.
The detachment received 10 reports of vehicle break-ins in the Christie Road area of Ladysmith on the weekend.
The vehicles were unlocked and cash, headphones, laptops, jewelry and wallets were stolen.
The police say thieves will break in for as little as a few coins or a cigarette lighter, but also take such items as GPS units, passports, house keys, clothing and sunglasses.
Identity theft may become a problem if personal identification such as a driver’s licence, financial documents, credit/debit information or mail that could identify you is stolen.
The RCMP says thieves are often taking identification and credit cards from purses, but leaving the purse behind and the victim may not notice the theft immediately.
Keeping your garage door opener in your vehicle along with any identifying information may lead thieves directly to a residence.
The RCMP says if you absolutely must leave items in your vehicle, put them in the trunk.
Security Suggestions:
- Invest in a good anti-theft device, particularly a passive immobilizer. Use a steering wheel lock every time you park your vehicle. Make sure you set the alarm on your vehicle when you leave it.
- Secure your licence plates with bolts. Criminals commonly steal licence plates and use them to avoid being identified while committing other crimes.
- Lock your car when you leave it. Make sure that all of your doors and windows are locked. It only takes a few minutes for a thief to get a vehicle running, even without the keys. Double check your doors are locked on your car every night, either by physically going to check it, or by using your fob.
