The Dufferin OPP encourages residents to remember the message: Lock It or Lose It.

FROM: Dufferin Detachment                                              DATE: September 17, 2026

COMMUNITY SAFETY STARTS WITH YOU - LOCK IT OR LOSE IT

(DUFFERIN COUNTY) - Members of the Dufferin Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are reminding residents that taking a few simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk of vehicle theft and theft from vehicles.

Vehicle thefts and thefts from vehicles often occur when criminals identify easy opportunities. Unlocked vehicles, visible valuables, and accessible key fobs can make a vehicle an attractive target. By taking a few extra moments to secure your vehicle and belongings, you can help protect your property and contribute to the safety of our communities.

The Dufferin OPP understands that vehicle theft along with theft from vehicles remains a concern for many residents across Ontario and within our local communities. We hear your concerns, and police continue to address these crimes through proactive enforcement, investigations, and crime prevention initiatives. While officers work to identify and hold offenders accountable, crime prevention is a shared responsibility. Residents can play a significant role in reducing opportunities for thieves by securing their vehicles, removing valuables from sight, protecting their key fobs, and utilizing theft-deterrent devices. By working together, we can make our communities safer and less attractive to criminals.

The Dufferin OPP encourages residents to remember the message: Lock It or Lose It.

Residents are encouraged to follow these simple crime prevention tips:

• Lock your vehicle: Always lock your vehicle, even when parked at home, at work, or for a short stop.

• Remove valuables: Never leave wallets, purses, cash, electronics, tools, personal documents, or other valuables visible inside your vehicle.

• Take your keys and key fobs with you: Never leave keys, key fobs, or spare keys inside your vehicle.

• Use a steering wheel lock: Visible anti-theft devices can act as a deterrent and make your vehicle more difficult to steal.

• Protect your key fob: Store key fobs in a Faraday pouch, Faraday case, or other signal-blocking device to help prevent relay theft.

• Park in well-lit areas: Whenever possible, park in a well-lit location and consider using a locked garage.

• Keep vehicle documents secure: Avoid storing ownerships, insurance documents, garage door openers, or personal identification inside your vehicle.

• Consider surveillance: Security cameras and motion-activated lighting can help deter criminals and assist police investigations.

Community awareness plays an important role in crime prevention. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious vehicles, individuals, or activity in their neighbourhoods. If something doesn't seem right, trust your instincts and contact police. Reporting suspicious activity may help prevent a crime from occurring.

The Dufferin OPP will continue proactive patrols and public education efforts to help reduce vehicle thefts and keep our communities safe.

Remember: Lock It or Lose It. While the Dufferin OPP remains committed to identifying and apprehending those responsible for vehicle thefts, residents must also do their part. Simple preventative measures can make the difference between a vehicle being targeted or passed over. By working together and remaining vigilant, we can help prevent crime before it occurs.

Members of the Dufferin OPP remain committed to public safety through proactive and innovative policing in partnership with the community.

If you have information regarding suspected unlawful activity, contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or online at www.crimestopperssdm.com.