Safeguarding Auto Theft In The Greater Toronto Area
Safeguarding Auto Theft In The Greater Toronto Area
Posted on December 8, 2023
From 2014 to 2021, Ontario saw an increase of 72 per cent in auto theft, and in the last year alone, a 14 per cent increase. Even more locally, Peel Regional Police have reported a rise of 86 per cent in auto thefts from 2020 to 2022 in Brampton and Mississauga. This crime is a persistent concern, with thousands of vehicles stolen every day in our local community. Protecting your car goes beyond locking the doors; it involves adopting a proactive approach to ensure the safety of your vehicle. We'll explore the latest trends in auto theft, our latest initiative to help prevent auto theft in our local Brampton Community and the practical steps you can take to safeguard your vehicle(s).
Auto theft remains a prevalent issue worldwide, with sophisticated thieves employing various techniques to steal vehicles for resale, parts, or even joyriding. While advancements in technology have made it more challenging for thieves, they have also adapted, finding innovative ways to bypass security systems. According to recent police reports a car is stolen every 48 minutes. This alarming figure underscores the importance of staying vigilant and implementing effective security measures.
On February 1, 2023, Brampton Council passed a motion to help prevent auto theft. This came following residents' significant concern for their safety and well-being due to the rise of auto theft in the community. One way to prevent car theft is through the use of signal blocking devices that can reduce the signal emitted from your key FOB. The Peel Regional Police Force encourages such devices to deter vehicle theft.
As an automotive group, we understand the severity of auto theft in our community. In order to combat this issue, in collaboration with Peel Regional Police, Peel Crime Stoppers, and the City of Brampton we were able to give away free signal blocking pouches, in five pilot areas. We are so proud to have sponsored such a crucial initiative in our local Brampton Community.
Mayor of Brampton, Patrick Brown thanks “President Glen Alizadeh and the entire team at Performance Auto Group for sponsoring an important pilot to help prevent auto theft in our city”. He goes on to say “Support from the business community helps deliver innovative programs that benefit residents at no cost to taxpayers. Thank you”.
On top of this initative, the City of Brampton is advocating to federal and provincial partners for support. This includes an increase in the number of Canada Border and Security Agency officers inspecting containers leaving Canada to prevent stolen vehicles from leaving the country.
The use of signal blocking pouches alone will not guarantee protection against auto theft. On top of your signal blocking pouch, here are some other ways to protect your vehicle against theft:
- Invest in theft prevention devices and aftermarket products to prevent thieves from cloning keys (such as the signal blocking pouches from our theft prevention initiative)
- Park in a garage if possible
- Ensure your property (or parking area is well lit)
- Always lock your vehicle
- Install a vehicle tracking system
- Educate yourself and others
- Avoid storing valuables in sight
In conclusion, safeguarding your vehicle against auto theft requires a combination of awareness, diligence, and effective security measures. By staying informed about the latest trends, adopting modern security technologies, and implementing practical steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to auto theft. Remember, the more layers of protection you employ, the more likely thieves will move on to an easier target, leaving your vehicle safe and sound. Lastly, we would like to thank everyone involved in this initiative to Drive Change for a better future.