EDMONTON — He’s about as cuddly as a cactus and if you’re not careful, a Christmas Grinch could get away with all of your gifts this holiday season.
The Alberta Motor Association is warning shoppers to be vigilant while out shopping. Drivers are reminded to roll up their windows, lock their doors and remove all valuables from their vehicles.
“I love this time of year. Everyone is rushing store to store without locking their doors,” the Grinch said. “Then I get to go through, look for their gifts, gizmos, doodads and whatchamacallits and bring them all back to my cave.”
“I love when I get to check the handle and the door comes right open or the window is open a little crack. I can be in and out in seconds flat,” the Grinch said.
READ MORE: Top 5 ways to keep your car safe from break-ins and theft
While shopping mall parking lots are a hot spot for thieves, so too are restaurant parking lots and any poorly-lit areas.
“I especially like to look for vehicles that are parked in the dark, that’s where I like to lurk,” the Grinch said.
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According to the AMA, about 60 per cent of all theft from vehicles happens because the doors are unlocked. The AMA says locking your doors is a simple way to avoid the crime of opportunity.
Watch below: AMA video shows Christmas gifts getting the pinch
The also AMA penned the following “grinchy” poem to provide drivers with tips:
Every Who down in Whoville has reason to fear
When old Grinchy hits the mall in search of your gear
So please lock your doors – you know just what to do
Stash your valuables out of sight and not in plain view
When you park your sleigh put your treasures away
Or that mean Mr. Green with your Xbox will play
Cameras, tablets, iPhones and designer sunglasses
Make old Grinchy’s eyes pop out as he passes
A steering wheel lock puts the brakes on his cart
That ‘All Valuables Removed’ sign strikes fear in his heart
No loose change or purses, no gift cards or wallets
No go-pros or dash docks, no whiz-gidgets, or whatchamacallits
So park by the bright lights and scan the lot for strangers
Avoid trips to your trunk, move your car, watch for dangers
Don’t leave your ride running, lock your doors – it’s a cinch
Share those gifts with your loved ones and avoid Grinchy’s pinch!
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