Working together to improve community safety - Lock-it or Lose-it

(SOUTH HURON, ON) -  Theft from motor vehicles is an ongoing crime which directly impacts victims and places a strain on valuable police resources. This type of crime is not new, but it is often preventable through community engagement.
 

The first week of November marks Crime Prevention Week and the theme is “Community Safety and Well Being, A Shared Commitment in Ontario.” This means the focus will be on how we all can do our part to make communities safer.
 

Huron County OPP officers are encouraging residents to take some personal responsibility in securing their property in an effort to combat the number of recent thefts of vehicles and thefts from vehicles. 
 

A spike in the number of thefts and thefts from motor vehicles in the Town of Exeter serves as another reminder that there are still too many people failing to take simple, basic steps to secure their personal property. Since Oct. 8, 22 thefts have occurred in Exeter.  The majority of these have been thefts of valuables stolen from unlocked vehicles and most of these crimes have taken place overnight. Some of the stolen items include: wallets, power tools, backpacks, electronics, cheques and clothing.
 

Additionally, there have been a few bicycles stolen, including an $800, white CCM “Apex” mountain bike stolen overnight Nov. 1, from an unlocked shed on Gidley Street West. 

Please note:  The Huron OPP has a number of recovered stolen/abandoned bicycles in storage. Owners are encouraged to stop by the Exeter OPP detachment to claim them.
 

"Lock-It or Lose-It" has existed in different forms for many years and is designed to encourage drivers to take simple precautions to help prevent crime and victimization. Through communication, the program incorporates effective prevention through public awareness and education in support of its enforcement activities. “Lock-It or Lose-It” has proven that strategic partnerships between the community and police will reduce crime. By working together, we'll continue to make a difference in the prevention of crime.
 

The OPP, the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police and the Insurance Bureau of Canada  are encouraging citizens to “Lock-It or Lose-It.” The goal of this proactive crime prevention program is to encourage drivers to take a few simple precautions that will protect their vehicles from theft. An unlocked door or an open window is an invitation to thieves. The “Lock-It or Lose-It” program reminds drivers to always:
 

• Roll up their vehicle windows
• Keep valuables out of sight
• Lock their doors
• Pocket their keys

The “key” to protecting your vehicle and your valuables is in your hands. Keep yourself from becoming an easy target by properly securing your vehicle and personal property.