Motor vehicle thefts are up 47 per cent in the Grande Prairie area compared with the same period last year, according to police. Between Jan. 1 and Feb. 9, 28 vehicles were reported stolen. During the same period in 2025, there were 19 reported thefts.
Police said most of the recent thefts involved vehicles left running or with keys inside.
Grande Prairie RCMP and the Grande Prairie Police Service are reminding residents to take precautions to reduce the risk of theft. They advise parking in a garage or driveway when possible. If that is not an option, vehicles should be parked in a visible, well-lit area.
Police also recommend using visible anti-theft devices such as steering-wheel locks and becoming familiar with vehicle security settings. Owners who install automatic starters should ensure their vehicles cannot be driven without the key present.
Drivers are urged never to leave vehicles unattended with keys inside and to lock doors at all times, including when parked in a driveway or garage.
Leaving a vehicle running and unattended increases the risk of theft and puts any contents at risk, including wallets, keys, garage door openers, personal documents, loose change, purses and shopping items.
