WINNIPEG – The Winnipeg Police Service is launching the All Valuables Removed initiative. The goal of the initiative is to prevent damage and theft from vehicles by reminding owners to remove valuables from their vehicles when unoccupied providing a deterrent to thieves.

Most property crimes are crimes of opportunity. In 2017 there were 2,327 vehicles stolen in Winnipeg; this increased to 2,797 in 2018. Thefts from motor vehicles also increased from 6,482 in 2017 to 8,063 in 2018. You can reduce the likelihood of being a target of these crimes by taking an active role in crime prevention by following these simple steps.

Remove valuables and shopping bags from view – this includes removing loose change and electronic devices

Don’t leave personal identification, vehicle registration/ insurance certificates, or credit cards in your vehicle

Never leave your vehicle running and unattended

Always close windows and lock all doors

Never leave your car keys, house keys or garage door opener in your vehicle

Park in well-lit areas with pedestrian traffic

Displaying the bright yellow theft prevention card can be a deterrent to thieves and can help save you reporting time, insurance costs, missed work and towing charges. It also acts as a reminder to other drivers to protect their valuables.