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Ford trucks are popular targets for thieves in the North Okanagan.
April is Auto Crime Enforcement Month and the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP are asking the public for their help in deterring auto crime by taking away opportunities from thieves.
More than 46,600 vehicles were broken into and more than 7,500 were stolen in British Columbia in 2020.
Const. Chris Terleski said theft of, and thefts from motor vehicles, continues to be an issue throughout the North Okanagan and one trend in particular has come to the attention of police.
“Since the end of February 2021, we’ve had a marked increase in Ford F-350s being stolen in the North Okanagan,” Terleski said. “Our data clearly indicates these vehicles are being targeted, older models in particular. As a result, we’re asking anyone who owns one of these vehicles to consider taking additional safety measures to safeguard their vehicle, such as installing an electronic engine immobilizer or alarm system, or using a steering-wheel lock or other theft deterrent system.”
Terleksi said other makes and models of vehicles are not immune, and the battle against auto theft starts with vehicle owners, who are reminded it’s also what is inside a vehicle that can be at risk.
As temperatures rise, more people are taking to the outdoors to enjoy the sunny weather and parking lots at popular hiking spots, parks and other outdoor recreational sites are filling up.
With this comes the potential increase of criminal activity as thieves look to exploit these sites to make a quick score.
“Whenever you are leaving your vehicle unattended, remove anything that might tempt a thief, park in a well-lit, high-traffic area, and always lock your vehicle,” said Terleski. “Taking these steps will greatly reduce the risk of having your vehicle broken into or your belongings taken.
“Whether at home or in public, leaving valuables in plain sight is an invitation for someone steal them. “If you do need to leave items in your vehicle, hide them out of sight and lock your doors. Thieves prefer easy targets and pass over vehicles if they do not see anything of value.”
For more information and tips to prevent auto crime, click here.
