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Car Prowling on the Rise; Residents Reminded to Take Precautions

May 3, 2016 | 12:05 PM

LETHBRIDGE – Car prowling and thefts from vehicles are on the rise in the west end of the city, that from the Lethbridge Police Service.

However, residents in all parts of the city are reminded that car prowling is a crime of opportunity, and there are ways to reduce the risk of being victimized.

Police say that valuables, like purses, wallets, expensive electronics and small change, shouldn’t be left in vehicles.

You should also make sure that your car doors are locked when its unattended and the alarm is activated, if one is installed. In most cases, property is stolen when doors are left unlocked.

Parking in well lit areas, your driveway or garage will also reduce your chances of becoming a target, since most criminals rely on the cover of darkness.

For the most part, police say car prowlers are lazy but quick. They tend to walk up and down streets pulling on door handles to see which have been left open, and grab anything that’s easy to reach.

If you witness someone trying to open cars or any other suspicious activity, call police right away. Do not try to intervene, and note the subject’s description and what direction they’re travelling in.