Strathcona County RCMP are urging homeowners to take extra precautions after two recent thefts involving garage door openers stolen from unlocked vehicles.
In both incidents, suspects accessed unattended vehicles parked outside, found garage remotes, and used them to enter the garages and steal property.
“We’ve had two recent reports where a criminal gained entry to a vehicle parked outside and then used the garage door opener to enter the garage and steal items from the property,” said Const. Cheri-Lee Smith with the Strathcona County Community Policing Unit.
Police are reminding residents of several key safety tips:
• Always lock your vehicle, even if it’s running.
• Never leave keys or valuables inside.
• Remove garage door openers from vehicles.
• Lock garages and the door between the garage and the home.
• Park in well-lit areas when possible.
• Use anti-theft devices like steering wheel clubs.
• Consider installing a vehicle tracking system.
RCMP stress the importance of reporting all crimes, no matter how small. “Reports tell us where to look, who to look for, and where additional patrols may be required,” Smith said.
To report a crime, contact RCMP by phone, in person, or through their mobile app. For crimes in progress, call 911. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, online at www.P3Tips.com, or via the “P3 Tips” mobile app.
With simple steps and vigilance, police say residents can help protect their property and prevent further incidents.
