The 9pm Routine
Vehicle Thefts:
Make the #9PMRoutine Part of Your Night in Calgary
Across Calgary, there’s been an increase in vehicles being stolen from residential driveways overnight. The good news? A few simple habits can make a big difference.
That’s where the #9PMRoutine comes in. Before heading to bed, take a minute to check your vehicle and property. These quick steps can help keep your car from becoming an easy target.
It only takes a moment each night:
- Park in your garage if you can and make sure the garage door is locked.
- If you have more than one vehicle, park one behind the other to make it harder for someone to drive off.
- Think about adding extra security, like a steering wheel lock or a tracking device
A Few Simple Tips to Help Protect Your Vehicle:
- Lock your doors and roll up the windows every time you park.
- Don’t leave your vehicle running unattended, even for a quick stop.
- Keep your keys away from the front door or windows. Thieves sometimes use devices that can capture signals from key fobs. Storing your keys in a Faraday/RFID blocking pouch can help prevent that.
- Keep your driveway and yard well lit so there are fewer places to hide.
- Install security cameras outside your home if possible.
- Consider anti-theft tools like steering wheel locks, GPS trackers, engine immobilizers, or OBD port locks that prevent thieves from reprogramming keys.
- Hide or cover your vehicle identification number (VIN) so it can’t easily be photographed.
- Don’t leave valuables in plain sight. If you have to leave items in your car, put them in the trunk or take them with you.
Where Do Most Vehicle Thefts Happen?
Vehicle theft doesn’t just happen at home. It often occurs in places like:
- Large or isolated parking lots
- Shopping malls and retail centres
- Transit park-and-ride lots
- Movie theatres and entertainment venues
- Airports
- Residential driveways and unlocked garages
Making the #9PMRoutine part of your nightly habits is a quick and easy way to help protect your vehicle and your neighbourhood.
More Crime Prevention Resources
Stay one step ahead: check out more tools, tips, and crime‑prevention resources.
