Vehicle theft numbers rising as temperatures fall

Vehicle theft is down this year compared to last, but the recent deep freeze is causing this year’s numbers to rise, according to the Regina Police Service (RPS).

“It’s worth noting that we have seen an increase in stolen vehicles in this recent cold snap we’re in,” the RPS wrote in an email to 980 CJME. “In the last four days, 64 per cent of stolen vehicles were left running with keys in the ignition or had keys present within the vehicle.”

From Nov. 1, 2019 to Feb. 1, 2020, there was 277 vehicles stolen around the city. In the same time frame this year, that number is at 233.

“So far this year — 37 per cent of stolen vehicles were left running with keys in the ignition, or had keys present within the vehicle,” the RPS wrote.

Christine Niemczyk with CAA Saskatchewan says there are a lot of different things people can do to ensure their frozen vehicle doesn’t get stolen.

“Store everything that would be valuable or important in the trunk of your vehicle,” Niemczyk said. “If you do leave your car running and you want to warm up, maybe have that second set of keys with you at all times, but don’t leave your vehicle unattended for too long.

“(It) also wouldn’t hurt for you to use a physical anti-theft device such as a steering wheel bar as well.”

The RPS wants to remind people that it only takes a few moments for your vehicle to disappear.

“We all want to get into a warm car — especially in these temperatures — but it’s important to remember that auto theft is a crime of opportunity,” said the RPS. “Leaving keys alone inside the vehicle while it warms up offers an easy opportunity for an individual to quickly steal a vehicle.”