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“Lock-toberfest” Aims To Protect Vehicles
Crime Stoppers of Haldimand, Norfolk and Tillsonburg continues to encourage everyone to participate in “Lock-toberfest” activities and this week will focus on vehicle crime prevention tips. Designed to encourage the public to look at different areas where they might take advantage of crime prevention techniques to help discourage criminals from targeting their property, the initiative ties in with the fact the November 2 – 8, 2008 has been named “Crime Prevention Week” in Ontario.
“This promotion re-iterates that crime prevention is everyone’s responsibility,” states Gord Little, Chairperson for Crime Stoppers of Haldimand, Norfolk and Tillsonburg. He adds, “With November 2 – 8, 2008 being named “Crime Prevention Week” in Ontario, this promotion gives people a great way to participate in local activities and take action to help prevent crime from occurring in our neighborhoods.”
The attached tip sheet highlights things that individuals can do to help secure their automobiles, recreational vehicles and bikes. For more information on how to crime proof your vehicle or information regarding your local “Crime Prevention Week” activities, contact your local police service.
In addition to re-iterating the importance of exercising good crime prevention techniques, Crime Stoppers of Haldimand, Norfolk and Tillsonburg also encourages anyone with information about property crimes or any crime to contact their office.
Crime Stoppers is a community based organization which provides people with an anonymous, confidential way to relay information to investigators without ever having to get involved as a witness. The program’s toll free 1-800-222-TIPS line and online webtips (www.helpsolvecrime.com) are operational 24 hours a day, seven days a week and cash rewards are offered for information that leads to an arrest or charge.
Crime Prevention Tips for Automobiles and Recreational Vehicles
Crime prevention is everyone’s responsibility. You can dramatically reduce the risk of vehicle theft by following these simple do’s and don’ts.
Automobiles
- Always lock your vehicle and close your windows tightly.
- Whenever possible, while parking, turn your wheels and set your parking brake to make towing your vehicle more difficult.
- Utilize an anti-theft device such as a steering wheel lock, an automatic engine shut-off, a tracking device or audible alarm.
- Use anti-theft programs if they are available in your area or have identifying information permanently etched onto your windows.
- Park your vehicle in a well lit area at nighttime.
- Never leave keys in the ignition or an unattended vehicle running.
- Never place a spare key in or on the vehicle.
- Don’t leave original insurance or ownership documents in your vehicle. Transportation and financial gain are the most common reasons for vehicle theft.
- Don't mark your key chain with your name or license number. Your lost keys could lead a thief to your car.
- Don't invite a break-in by leaving packages or valuables in sight. Take valuables with you or leave them locked in the trunk of your car.
- Keep your garage door opener with you. If your vehicle is stolen, a thief may use the opener to gain entry to your home.
Snowmobiles, motorcycles, bicycles and other recreational vehicles
- Many of the precautions that apply to cars also apply to recreational vehicles like snowmobiles, motorcycles, ATVs, etc.
- The most important thing to remember is always lock up and take the keys with you.
- Park recreational vehicles in well lit areas or in a locked outbuilding whenever possible.
- Disconnect battery cables (if appropriate).
- Secure machine to a fixed or anchored object while storing.
- To protect your bicycle, use a case hardened chain and a sturdy padlock. The chain should be at least 3/8 inches thick and covered with plastic or an inner tube to prevent scratching the bike's finish.
- Secure the chain through the bike frame versus the wheels (which can be easily removed).
- If stored outside, cover your motorcycle or bike with a plain tarp or cover (not one which advertises the type of bike that lies beneath).
For more information on crime prevention and/or programs that are available in your area, contact your local police service.
(Created with input from the Ontario Provincial Police, Crime Prevention Section)