With Spring officially here, the Airdrie RCMP is reminding Airdronians to keep their belongings locked up as thieves are looking for easy pickings.

According to the RCMP when it comes to reporting crimes, so far this year like stolen vehicles and breaking and entering, Airdrie's crime numbers are about the same as previous years.

"To date, in 2024 we've had 63 reports of stolen vehicles and 14 reports of break and enters into garages," stated Cpl. James McConnell of the Community Policing Unit.

Out of the 63 stolen vehicles, five were left unlocked. For the break and entry into garages, either the doors were left unlocked or opened.

"Just making sure everything is locked up or closed properly is the easier way to prevent theft."

McConnell mentioned other tips to help keep your vehicles or home well protected like parking your vehicles in well-lit areas. Having cameras watching your property and maybe even alarm systems is always a good idea.

"As we're getting into these warmer months, we ask that people be mindful of their window. If they are accessible from the ground and open, they are just like an open door so it's important to be close by if they are open."

For those that have outdoor keypads, it is recommended to change those codes every few months.

"If you're away from your home for a while, consider house sitters and having neighbours check up on your house to make it look like somebody is there."

When it comes to garage door openers, McConnell mentioned there have been a few instances where people would break into a vehicle to steal the garage door opener and then return a few days later to steal items.

"We encourage people to not leave their garage door openers in their cars in their driveway out in the open. The same goes for any type of personal belongings that could intrigue somebody into breaking in."

McConnell also mentioned bicycle thefts are one of the most common thefts and it's very important to lock them up.

"If it is left unattended and unlocked, it's an easy crime of opportunity for people to take a bike and go for a ride."

McConnell also mentioned it can be hard to find the thieves of stolen bikes as they could have gone in so many different directions and just left the bike anywhere.

With all this being said, it is very important to report anything to the RCMP and not just online so they can help you find what has been stolen.

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