Recovery of stolen items reminder of ‘9 p.m. routine’: RCMP

The recovery of three stolen items has police in B.C.’s Interior again reminding residents to be proactive when it comes to protecting their property.

Salmon Arm RCMP say they found three dirt bikes during the past week that had never been reported as missing.

All three were located in wooded areas, with the first being recovered on Sunday along a trail near the end of 9th Avenue NE. The other two were also found in the area.

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“Property crime has become a focal point in communities large and small throughout B.C.,” said the RCMP.

“Thefts from residences and motor vehicles are often crimes of opportunity, with thieves taking advantage of items left in plain sight or unattended.

“Criminals seek out the easiest target for break-ins and there are steps we can all take to prevent these crimes.”

Police say residents throughout the Interior are encouraged to adopt the ‘9 p.m. routine’, which includes the following:

• Removing valuables from vehicles
• Removing keys from vehicles
• Removing garage door openers from vehicles
• Locking vehicle doors
• Avoid storing anything of value outside
• Lock up your residence (doors, windows)
• Lock up outbuildings
• Turn on exterior lights
• Turn on alarm systems

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In B.C., police began promoting the 9 p.m. routine in 2019 as part of its annual reminder to help deter vehicle crime.

They said locking car doors and keeping valuables out of sight are easy ways to reduce the risk of theft, but easy to forget after a long day.

“For us, it’s all about awareness,” said the RCMP. “Keeping your vehicle safe requires a conscious effort from car owners.

“(Thieves) see things like a phone, a garage door opener or a tablet, and it’s like an invitation. Even spare change, unfortunately, can be an invitation.”