2011 news releases

For major announcements, decisions, projects or campaigns, SGI circulates news releases to Saskatchewan media.

Take steps to prevent vehicle theft

Dec. 6, 2011

Nearly 20 per cent of all vehicles stolen in Regina so far this year had the keys left in them.

Since 2001, the number of auto thefts per year in Regina has decreased by 70 per cent, but vehicle thefts still occur. In some cases, they could be prevented by employing some simple crime prevention strategies, like never leaving your vehicle running while unattended, or leaving spare house or car keys in your vehicle.

“For many people it is a real hardship to be without a vehicle for a period of time,” said Earl Cameron, Vice President of Claims and Salvage at SGI. “Don’t be a target – protect your vehicle from theft and vandalism by following some simple steps, starting with never leaving your keys in your car.”

SGI recommends the following steps to help prevent vehicle theft:

• Shut windows tightly and lock all doors.
• Never leave your vehicle running while unattended, even with it locked.
• Remove all valuables from your vehicle, including spare change.
• Don’t leave any spare set of keys in your vehicle.
• Park in well lit areas at night time.

“Most vehicle thefts are crimes of opportunity,” said Sgt. Larry Anderson, Regina Police Service, Stolen Auto Unit. “As a vehicle owner, you want to make it as hard and time-consuming as possible for a thief to break into or steal your vehicle.”

In total from Jan. 1 to Oct. 31, 2011, SGI has received more than 600 claims for stolen vehicles in Regina, at a cost of almost $2 million.

For more tips on preventing vehicle theft, visit our Prevent vehicle theft and vandalism page or visit the Regina Police Service’s website at www.reginapolice.ca.