LOCK IT OR LOSE IT

(CALEDON, ON) – On November 9, 2013, Auxiliary members of the Caledon Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) teamed up with members of the Policing Advisory Council of Caledon (P.A.C.C.) and Crime Prevention sub-committee members to conduct a theft prevention exercise “Lock it or Lose it”. The purpose of this initiative was to ensure that owners locked their vehicles to deter the possibility of theft from motor vehicles.

“Lock It or Lose It” was developed by the OPP and the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) as a proactive crime reduction program designed to encourage drivers to take simple precautions that will protect their valuables from theft.

The Auxiliary and PACC members were checking vehicles in the retail parking lots of Wal-Mart and the Smart Centre. A total of 266 vehicles were inspected and 19 doors were discovered unlocked. Amongst the valuables in plain view included Global Positioning Systems (GPS), purses, wallet, cellular phones and alcohol.

Caledon OPP Detachment Interim Detachment Commander, Inspector Dom Beckett:

“This program was very successful and serves as a reminder to motorists to take precautionary measures in order to reduce the chance of becoming a victim. Taking the extra couple of seconds to lock your vehicle, roll up your vehicle’s windows, and pocket the keys when you park your vehicle will save you time and frustration should you become a victim of this preventable crime. The OPP recognizes that this is a great demonstration of community mobilization by engaging community members to actively participate in crime reduction programs.”

Auxiliary Constable Gareth Olafson and Terry Fast, Chairperson of the Caledon P.A.C.C. committee checking vehicles at Wal-Mart and Smart Centre retail stores in Bolton, Ontario.

Over 150,000 Monthly Readers! 1 Million+ Across the entire FreePress Network.