Local law enforcement and volunteers are once again trying to help Grande Prairie residents protect their stuff. The next GP Help End Auto Theft blitz is set for Tuesday and Wednesday, targeting city facilities like the Montrose Cultural Centre, City Hall, Revolution Place, and the Dave Barr Arena.
During the HEAT blitz, teams from Crime Prevention, Enforcement Services, RCMP and other volunteers in reflective vests go through public parking lots and grade each vehicle they come across on whether or not they are an easy target for thieves. Their assessment is left upside down on every vehicle’s windshield, along with information on how to better protect against vehicle theft and theft from vehicles. The vehicles aren’t otherwise touched.
Among tips from the city are to lock all doors and close all windows, removing valuables from plain sight, and keeping garage door openers on your person. Drivers should also park in well-lit, highly visible areas, and report any suspicious behaviour to police.
“Remember, a thief can steal a car in seconds,” GP HEAT says in a release. “An unlocked car or an open window is an easy target. Protecting your vehicle and property is as easy as locking and securing it.”