Cochrane motorists continue to be targeted by thieves and likely always will be because of our proximity to Calgary.

The RCMP is once again reminding residents to secure their vehicles after yet another rash of thefts.

In the last two weeks, they have responded to thefts from motor vehicles in several Cochrane neighbourhoods, reports Cpl. Troy Savinkoff of the Cochrane RCMP.

“As temperatures drop, we tend to see an increase in thefts of motor vehicles as well,” says Savinkoff. ”The most effective method to deter this type of crime is simply to lock up your vehicle at all times.”

This time around it was the Sunset Ridge and Fireside communities that were hit, but Savinkoff says it could occur anywhere in Cochrane.

"Unfortunately, it only takes one or two offenders to be active in the evening to victimize multiple people."

He says while there are residents who do commit crimes, many offenders come here from Calgary, typically in stolen vehicles, looking for easy pickings. He believes if more people locked their vehicles, fewer would target Cochrane.

"We try to increase our patrols at night and have a good visible presence in the middle of the night, but one would also have to think that because residents are unfortunately not locking their vehicles, they're making the environment ripe for crimes such as this to occur."

Residents are further asked to keep valuables hidden, in particular presents, when out shopping this holiday season. Shopping district parking lots are commonly targeted.

When arriving home, RCMP reminds people to remove items of value from their vehicle. He says it's uncommon for criminals to smash the windows of targeted vehicles unless they see something of value.

"Normally, they're just going to try your doors and move on to the next car. They'll hit as many vehicles and try as many handles as they can in an evening."

The detachment's crime reduction unit did conduct a small campaign in the past where they visited neighbourhoods to try car doors. Those discovered unlocked were secured, and a brochure was left inside.

"We did find quite a few vehicles left unlocked on residential streets," he says.

Should residents see any suspicious activities, they are encouraged to contact the Cochrane RCMP at 403-870-3749 or your local police.

If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com, or by using the "P3 Tips" app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.