Scourge  |   Theft of automobiles and property  |   Purchasing used vehicles
Winter Tires  |   Insurance Fraud

Theft of automobiles and belongings

In order to keep your vehicle and the goods you have in it from being stolen, we suggest that you:

• Install an antitheft device that satisfies Canadian standards and is approved by the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC). It should be noted, however, that the effectiveness of such systems is often compromised by the installation of a remote starter after the purchase of the vehicle. And don't forget: never give your alarm system code to a stranger or tell them how your ignition lock works!
• Consider additional protective measures such marking various parts of your vehicle, or adding an alarm and a tracking system.
• Equip your car with a locking device (such as an antitheft bar lock). Some bars lock the steering wheel; others lock the gear shift or the clutch pedal. And, since they're visible, they discourage potential thieves. You can also replace the bolts on your wheels with antitheft bolts.
• Never leave an unattended vehicle running.
• Close the windows and the sun roof, and lock the doors and the trunk, even for just a few seconds and even if your vehicle is parked in front of your house.
• Away from home, choose safe, well-lit parking spots. To reduce the risk of theft, block the wheels by turning them to the side and applying the hand brake. Give only the key to the vehicle to the parking lot attendant, and keep your key chain with you.
• Never leave your registration, insurance certificate or driver's licence in the vehicle. If the thief is stopped before the theft is reported, he will tell the police officer that you loaned your car to him. Result: he will not be arrested and will drive off with your car!
• Thieves are attracted by the goods that are in clear view and easy to sell, such as cameras, computers, etc. Do not carry valuable objects in your vehicle. If you have to, hide them before leaving home-and not when you leave the vehicle. Thieves may be watching you from a distance.
• Never attach a label with your name and address to your key chain.
• Never hide the spare key inside or outside a vehicle: all thieves know about the "magnetic box"!
• Certain vehicles are equipped with devices that prevent access to the trunk or the glove compartment. These security measures are very useful if you have to leave your car in a parking lot with an attendant or at a garage. Consult your owner's manual for more information.
• When away from home, choose parking spots that are secure and well-lit.
• To reduce the risk of theft, block the wheels by turning them to the side and applying the hand brake.
• Give only the car key to the parking lot attendant.
• Keep your key chain with you.