OPP launch auto theft prevention campaign

(SOUTHERN BRUCE COUNTY, ON) - In 2017, there were 106 stolen vehicles reported to the South Bruce OPP. Provincially, the numbers continue to rise, most notably in rural and agricultural communities within southwestern Ontario. 

In over 50 per cent of the cases, the thefts were preventable. This means that the vehicle was left unlocked, had the keys inside or was left running, making it easy for thieves.

The South Bruce OPP launched the #PocketYourKeys auto theft prevention campaign Monday morning in Walkerton, to further educate motorists on their responsibility to ensure their vehicle is secured at all times, and highlight the risks associated with the theft of vehicles. 

When a vehicle is stolen, the consequences go far beyond its loss. The vehicle could be used in a criminal act, such as a break-and-enter, transporting stolen property, trafficking of drugs or human trafficking. Another risk for a vehicle owner is the liability should it be involved in a serious crash. 

The OPP will use social media platforms to launch the #PocketYourKeys campaign with the goal of having vehicle owners take responsibility of their keys when the vehicle is not in use. Posters, poster cards and short videos will be made available for use by schools and community partners.

These products will also be available to the media and members of the public on the OPP website at opp.ca. The campaign will run over a three-week period.

"The #PocketYourKeys campaign is an important reminder that citizens can take simple steps to protect their own property and prevent a crime from happening in the first place,” says chief superintendent John Cain, OPP West Region headquarters. “Make crime difficult for criminals - Pocket Your Keys." 

"#PocketYourKeys is not only about vehicle theft, it's about our responsibilities to ensure our communities are safe by taking a simple preventative measure,” says inspector Dana Earley, South Bruce OPP detachment commander. “It's a public safety initiative that will protect both property and people."

Below are some simple steps to help drivers reduce the number of stolen vehicles and protect vehicle owners:
 

1. Do not leave your keys in your vehicle. 
2. Do not leave your vehicle running.
3. Lock your vehicle.
4. Treat your keys like cash - don't leave keys in places where they are easy to steal, such as a gym locker, on your desk at work, in an open purse, or unattended in a shopping cart.
5. Never leave anything in your vehicle in plain view, such as loose change, cell phones, cameras, clothing, gifts, cigarettes, medication, firearms or any other valuables.
6. Install a remote car starter - remote starters are designed to shut off if anyone attempts to drive the vehicle without a key. This will allow you to warm up your car without risk of theft. 

 
Theft is a crime of opportunity that you can help prevent - #PocketYourKeys.