Auto thief in black balaclava trying to break into car with screwdriver. Car thief, car theft

Auto theft on the rise in Chilliwack during cold weather

People are leaving cars and trucks running to warm up, and thieves are taking advantage

Chilliwack RCMP have noticed a spike in stolen-vehicle reports during the recent cold snap.

They are reminding people to lock vehicles that are parked for the night and not leave vehicles running and unattended.

RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Mike Rail said it’s common to start a vehicle up and let it warm up before hitting the road, but that creates opportunity for would-be thieves.

“Police also remind owners to remove remote garage door openers,” Rail added.

For more tips to protect your property from theft, visit the theft and vandalism page at the B.C. RCMP website or ICBC.com

Police remind everyone who sees anything suspicious to contact the Chilliwack RCMP at 604-792-4611 or call Crime Stoppers, anonymously, at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).

RELATED: Bus stolen in Surrey after driver took a bathroom break

RELATED: Young Chilliwack man makes B.C.’s Top 10 auto crime offender list


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