By Tom Mark

Coldstream Thefts Highlight Need For Security

Jun 6, 2018 | 8:48 AM

Vernon-North Okanagan RCMP are reminding people of the importance to keep your vehicles and property secure at all times.

A post on their Twitter feed speaks of thefts from vehicles in Coldstream Sunday night.

Constable Kelly Brett says somebody got into at least 4 vehicles in the Scenic Drive, Crestview Drive areas.

“It’s just a case of, I think, right place at the right time and vehicles are left unlocked. It’s not uncommon. Every area in Vernon is affected.”

She says some change, electronics and wallets were taken Sunday night.

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Brett says it’s a reminder that no matter where you live, you’re not necessarily safe from thieves.

“Sometimes we think because we live in a bedroom or a pocket community that we might not be affect or we live uphill, or something like that, people think it’s safer to leave my vehicle unlocked but it’s just a reminder it doesn’t matter where we are, people are out and about.”

Constable Brett says the best bet is to not leave anything in your vehicle because if thieves see it, they’ll take it.

She notes public areas like parks can get hit harder, places like Marshall Field and Kal Lake Park.

If thieves are watching and you’ve put something valuable in the trunk or the back of hatchback, police tend to see more smashing of windows to gain access and your goods are taken.

Constable Brett says you should always report a theft, no matter or small or minor you think it is.

If It’s a wallet and your personal information is in it, they can always get it back to.

When it comes to electronics, they all have serial or model numbers that can be tracked.

But there’s another reason.

“We might know who’s out and about doing these thefts from autos but also might give us an idea as to where people are, where they’re hanging they’re hat, where they’re living and things like that. So, It’s always good to know.

She says more people are installing doorbell cameras or other home security cameras that can provide some information.

Even if the quality isn’t good enough to recognize a face, other clues such as clothing, bikes, demeanor- the way they walk, the way they present themselves can he,lp find a culprit.

by Tom Mark