Edmonton police and the Alberta Motor Association teamed up earlier this week to warn drivers that older-model Hondas have become a hot target for thieves.
In turn, St. Albert RCMP are asking locals to do their part by being extra vigilant about reporting any suspicious activity in their neighbourhoods in order to prevent crimes of opportunity that may travel into St. Albert.
“Trends that we’ll see in Edmonton will often be touched (upon) in surrounding areas as well,” said Cpl. Laurel Kading with St. Albert RCMP, adding that auto thefts are more likely to occur when keys are left in the ignition, vehicles are unlocked, parked outside and windows are left rolled down.
According to Edmonton police, thieves frequently target older model cars because they often don’t have security features such as micro-chipped keys and anti-theft alarms, making them easily accessible.
“Hondas retain their value, and there are many older models still on the streets, which makes them popular among thieves. We want to remind owners that all vehicles need to be secured, not just the brand new ones,” said acting Sgt. Keith Pitzel with Edmonton Police Services.
In north Edmonton, auto theft has increased by 28 per cent from last year and 15 per cent of all vehicles stolen across the city were older-model Hondas.
Kading explained the number of vehicle thefts in St. Albert remain fairly consistent throughout the year. Around 65 motor vehicles, excluding motorcycles, were reported stolen in 2011 and 2012, while 34 vehicles have been reported stolen so far in 2013.
“We’re in a nice position compared to Edmonton, but of course we’d like to see that number sitting at zero,” said Kading. “Any amount of theft is not OK with us.”
Similar to vehicle theft trends in Edmonton, auto thefts in St. Albert increase slightly in the summer months with warmer weather and more pedestrians on the streets later in the day.
“Car thieves look for quick and easy opportunities, and will often not bother with a vehicle that has a steering wheel lock in clear view,” said Chris Rechner with the Alberta Motor Association.
The association has donated more than 100 steering wheel anti-theft locks to the Alberta Honda dealership in Edmonton at 9525 - 127 Ave. Owners of 1989 to 2000 Hondas can stop by the dealership during business hours to get their free lock while supplies last.
“Using a steering wheel lock not only immobilizes your vehicle, it sends a visual reminder to thieves that your vehicle is secured. It’s a very low-cost way of preventing a very expensive and inconvenient auto theft,” added Rechner.
Kading advises residents of St. Albert to keep a watchful eye over their communities, as being alert is one of the biggest deterrents of crime.
“Get to know who should be there, get to know what vehicle should be there and watch out for each other. That’s going to be our strongest way in getting that number down to zero.”
