Quesnel, B.C.- RCMP in Quesnel are advising residents to lock their vehicles and keep  valuables out of sight.

The reminder  comes in the wake of a rash of  thefts from vehicles in a number of residential areas.

“An unlocked door is an easy target for criminals" says Cst. Krista Vrolyk, Media Relations Officer for the Quesnel RCMP.  “It is very rare for us to see a theft from vehicle in which a window is smashed"  She says  there  is an increased risk of a thief being detected  while smashing a window "More often than not, criminals will move on to the next unlocked vehicle rather than spend the effort required for a locked vehicle.”

The simple act of locking your door and removing your valuables from plain sight can significantly reduce your chances of being victimized.  Unlocked vehicles are a haven for property thieves who have stolen electronic equipment and other personal items from unlocked vehicles in the last month in Quesnel.