Don’t make it easy for thieves to grab your Christmas gifts, warn ICBC and VPD
Posted December 8, 2017 10:42 am.
Last Updated December 8, 2017 10:43 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – Don’t leave your holiday shopping unattended in the back seat of your car. That’s the message from ICBC as the crown corporation tries to save you suffering a broken window.
When you’re doing a lot of shopping, it can be tempting to load up the car bit by bit so you’re not lugging around a load of gifts all at once.
But Joanna Linsangan with ICBC says it simply isn’t worth it, given there were 10,000 vehicle break ins last year.
“From… the number of claims that ICBC has received, we see that about one car is broken into every single hour. That’s why we’re reminding drivers to be extra-vigilant during the Christmas holiday season by shopping smart.”
“That means protecting your vehicle — removing valuables from your vehicle, parking in secure and well-lit areas, and also protecting your keys. Treat it like cash and make sure that you know where they are,” she adds.
Vancouver Police are also out with a reminder for online shoppers, saying some thieves will steal packages left at the front door by delivery companies.
“Thieves are opportunists and will steal anything,” says VPD Constable Jason Doucette. “We are reminding online shoppers to think ahead to the delivery date. If you’re not going to be home to receive the parcel, steps should be taken so packages aren’t left unattended for any length of time.”
The VPD says if you won’t be home for a delivery, you could consider having packages shipped to work instead. You could also request a signature or ask for the delivery company to hold your item for pick-up instead of having the item left at the door.
