Take the Keys, Lock It, Park Smart
Hamilton Police say the number one theft deterrent is to take the keys and lock the vehicle whenever it is left. In a December 2022 notice the service reported more thefts of high-end vehicles, including pickups, mostly overnight, and listed the models most often taken. Its prevention advice is short and practical.
Hamilton Police Tips
When you park
Turn the ignition off and take the keys. Park in a well-lit, attended area if you can. Lock valuables in the trunk. Close and lock every door and window, and turn the wheels to the side so the car is harder to tow.
At home
Use the garage if you have one, and lock it. Back a rear-wheel-drive car into the driveway; park a front-wheel-drive car front end first. Always set the emergency brake. Do not leave the ownership or insurance cards in the car.
Other habits
Never hide a spare key in the vehicle. Drive with the doors locked. And when buying a vehicle, police warn that a deal that sounds too good to be true probably is.
What Police Reported
High-target models
The December 2022 notice listed the Ford F-150, Dodge Durango, Dodge Ram, Toyota Highlander, 4Runner and Tacoma, Lexus RX350 and RC350, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Gladiator and Wrangler, Range Rover, and Honda CR-V and Pilot, mostly built between 2016 and 2022. Police said the trend was not limited to Hamilton.
Keys left inside
In a September 2019 reminder, police described two thefts within 48 hours where delivery drivers left their vehicles unattended with the keys inside, one near Winona Road and Highway 8. Police noted that a professional can steal a vehicle without keys within a minute, and that with the keys inside it takes seconds.
If it happens
Report the theft to police right away, with the year, make, model and colours ready. Information can go to the Hamilton Police non-emergency line or to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Common Questions
Does window tint stop car theft?
We will not claim that. Tint adds privacy, so things inside are less visible, but the police advice is about keys, locks, parking and keeping valuables out of sight.
Why turn the wheels when parking?
Hamilton Police say it makes a vehicle harder to tow away.
Where do I report information about a vehicle theft?
Call the Hamilton Police non-emergency line, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or crimestoppershamilton.com if you want to stay anonymous.
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