Spike in thefts from unlocked vehicles in Lake Country

LAKE COUNTRY — Lake Country RCMP responded to several thefts from vehicles in the Okanagan Centre area on Saturday and police say it’s a trend that has been on the rise in the past few weeks.

“The reports indicate that someone is targeting unlocked vehicles at night but the suspect(s) have also broken windows to gain access,” says Cst. Kris Clark with Kelowna RCMP.

“In one report, an unlocked home was entered while the occupants slept.”

Clark says the public should follow these tips to help prevent theft:

• Light your driveway at night or park in well-lit areas near pedestrian traffic.
• Do not leave any wallets or purses with personal identification in an unattended vehicle to avoid identity theft.
• Remove all valuables from plain view, even if your car is locked.
• Report any suspicious persons or activities near a vehicle in your neighborhood to police immediately.
• Always lock your car, even at home or in ‘secure’ underground parking.

He says the most common items thieves have gotten away with are credit cards, cash and wallets. There are have also been notebook computers and other electronics stolen.