The crowded parking lots at stores during the Christmas buying rush can be a very prosperous opportunity for thieves, say Ontario provincial police in a press release.
The Lock It or Lose It campaign is an education campaign designed by the Ontario association of Chiefs of Police and the Insurance Bureau of Canada, and has been available since Nov. 5.
The police released several tips aimed at making the Christmas shopping season safer.
- Carry a minimum amount of cash
- Park in a well-lit area of the lot
- Always roll up windows, lock doors and pocket the key
- Never leave vehicles unattended while running
- Never leave keys in the vehicle in plain view, or in easily accessible areas (such as near the gas cap)
- When using a debit card, never expose the PIN
- Do not put purses or wallets in shopping carts, or leave purses unattended
- Do not leave purchases unattended
- Do not overload yourself with parcels so that it is difficult to walk or carry them
- Have keys ready to unlock car doors rather than fumbling through pockets or purses
- Be aware of surroundings and other people near parked vehicles
- Never leave valuables or parcels in full view in your vehicle
- Never leave expensive purchased items in your vehicle
