Lock it up or lose it.
Fort St John RCMP have issued a new safety notice advising residents of an increase in property crime and provided tips for ensuring properties and vehicles are safe overnight.
“Fort St John continues to see a rise in property related crimes, especially and specifically related to thefts from vehicles that are left unlocked,” said Mounties in Fort St John.
The RCMP received 32 reports of theft under $5,000 from vehicles within a month, as of July 8, including seven reports of theft from vehicles overnight on June 9.
Their suggestion, dubbed the “9 p.m. routine,” is a checklist for property owners to do before getting cozy for the night.
The routine includes ensuring the car is locked and nothing valuable was left in it, confirming the garage door is closed and locking the garage door, then finally, closing all external doors and windows in and around the home – including shed doors.
Anyone who sees anything, or anyone, suspicious is advised to alert the RCMP detachment in Fort St John.
