Susan Thompson
Express Staff
Cars in Peace River are being checked to see if they are tempting to thieves as part of a new program to prevent crime.
“It will be running in Peace River for four months one specific day per month,” says Peace River town councillor Orren Ford.
“It’s part of our crime prevention initiative for the CPTED program where we are trying to get people to change behaviours, and I’m also pleased to say that co-op is also taking the initiative and they are going to run it in their store in Grimshaw as well.”
The auto crime risk assessment through the Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) program will identify risk factors such as leaving keys in a vehicle, leaving electronics in view, leaving windows open, or leaving a garage door opener in the vehicle. Using an anti-theft device, a steering wheel lock, and keeping cash, possessions and electronics out of view will also be identified to encourage residents to continue with those positive behaviours. An informational pamphlet will let drivers know how they did, and includes more tips on how to avoid becoming the victim of a crime.
If you see suspicious activity or any auto crime in progress, call 911 immediately. If you are the victim of an auto crime, contact your local RCMP detachment.