The West Region OPP is warning residents in Wellington, Perth and Huron counties that vehicle thefts are on the rise.
The OPP says over the past six months, 69 vehicles have been stolen in the three counties. Over half of the vehicle thefts occurred while the the keys to the vehicle were inside the automobile.
Police remind residents to Lock it or Lose it! You're also asked to remove valuables, lock your car, and store keys in a safe location away from the vehicle.
Never leave your vehicle unattended and running. Police say would be thieves often wait outside convenience stores or fast food restaurants looking for an opportunity.
Residents should also report any suspicious activity to police.
“These crimes are preventable and often result in the suspects engaging in other criminal activity with the stolen vehicle,” says Detective Staff Sergeant Gaynor.