The Alberta RCMP has reported a decrease in thefts from vehicles and thefts of vehicles in 2023. (Photo: Pattison Media)

By David Opinko

Alberta RCMP reports drop in thefts of and from vehicles in 2023

Feb 7, 2024 | 9:39 AM

The RCMP said thefts involving vehicles are still concerning in Alberta, but it is positive to see the numbers going down.

The police force reported that 8,710 vehicles were stolen in the province in 2023, falling by three per cent from 2022’s total of 8,946.

There were also 7,824 thefts from vehicles last year, representing a decline of 13 per cent from the 9,029 incidents the year prior.

The Alberta RCMP said, “Despite this decrease, it’s still important to note that theft is still prevalent in some areas, and there are actions that we can all take to keep our vehicles secure.”

Many areas across Canada, however, experienced an increase in vehicle-related thefts this past year. Équité Association (AE), a non-profit supporting Canadian property and casualty insurers, released its own report on thefts of vehicles.

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It found that, nationally, vehicle thefts were up 0.6 per cent in 2023, as Ontario (+7.1 per cent), Atlantic Canada (+6.7 per cent), and Quebec (+5.1 per cent) all saw increases.

The only region to have a decrease was Western Canada, consisting of B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. AE reported that there was a 9.7 per cent drop in vehicle thefts between 2022 and 2023.

The Alberta RCMP provided some tips to help prevent vehicles, or the items inside of them, from being stolen:

• Always keep your doors locked when you are not in the vehicle, especially if it is running.
• Never leave your keys in your vehicle.
• Be sure to remove all valuables, and keep purchases in your trunk until you get home.
• Use a steering wheel club.
• Always keep your garage locked and do not store your garage door opener in your vehicle.
• Whenever possible, park in a well-lit area.
• Consider installing a vehicle tracking system.