RCMP and ICBC remind the public of the dangers of storing items in a vehicle

Photo credit: PG RCMP

TO Sam Bennison

Public Safety

November 21, 2024 | 5:00 am

PRINCE GEORGE. Prince George’s RCMP Road Safety and Community Policing officers, in collaboration with ICBC and RCMP volunteer patrol officers, are reminding everyone to not leave any items in their vehicles that could be stolen during the holidays.

As part of the reminder, the organizers held a “Find a Goal” event on November 16 at the Pine Center shopping center. Participants were asked to look inside a parked car and identify potential “targets” that might entice thieves to break into the vehicle.

“These events are aimed at getting drivers to think about what they leave in their car when they park it and drive away. As we approach the Christmas and winter seasons, when our cars often have more gear than usual, it becomes a tempting target for thieves. Items such as Christmas gifts, ski or snowboard equipment, and warm winter clothing are valuable items that we ask people to think twice about before leaving behind,” states Cpl. Jennifer Cooper, Prince George’s RCMP media relations officer.

ICBC and RCMP warn against leaving any property visible in your vehicle, as they say thieves will break into the vehicle for just a few coins or a lighter. Typical items stolen from vehicles include purses, wallets, credit cards, cash, clothing and sunglasses. They add that if you left any items in the car, try moving them to the trunk or another location out of sight. This includes when your vehicle is parked in your driveway or carport.