Car thefts are on the rise in Brampton

Published December 16, 2019 at 3:21 pm

If you want to warm your car up before getting into it, you might want to double-check that it’s locked, as car thefts are on the rise in Brampton and Mississauga. 

If you want to warm your car up before getting into it, you might want to double-check that it’s locked, as car thefts are on the rise in Brampton and Mississauga. 

Peel police are warning resident to be vigilant when warming up their vehicles, as unoccupied running cars can be easy targets for thieves. 

Police say that based on statistics from patrol divisions in Brampton and Mississauga, a total of 124 vehicles were stolen while being warmed up from December 2017 to February 2018.  

From December 2018 to February 2019, a total of 231 vehicles were stolen while warming, meaning police saw a 60 per cent increase in warm-up related vehicle thefts.

For the 2019/2020 winter season, investigators are hoping to reverse the trend and are encouraging the public to follow these tips to protect their vehicles:

  • Use remote car starters
  • Do not leave the key in the ignition as the vehicle is warming up
  • Do not leave vehicles unattended
  • Ensure vehicle doors are locked  

“Theft of motor vehicles causes significant stress and inconvenience for owners but by following the tips provided, you can help alleviate that stress and help protect your property,” police say.

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