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The theft of six vehicles in seven days in the South Okanagan has prompted police to issue a warning to the motoring public.

RCMP say a company Ford F-150 pickup was stolen from a worksite on Cedar Street in Okanagan Falls on April 21.

A few days later a 2006 Ford F-250 pickup with Washington State licence plates was stolen while parked at a business on Main Street in Osoyoos, according to an RCMP media release.

On April 27, a truck along with a trailer and boat were stolen on Ash Street in Okanagan Falls.

The next day, April 28, a 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche was stolen from a home on Government Street in Penticton. That same day, a 1993 Dodge Ram 2500 pickup was stolen while parked in front of a home on Skaha Place.

In Oliver, a 2005 Ford F-350 pickup was stolen from a business. Police say the suspects drove the truck through the fence to get away. In this case, the suspect was caught on video surveillance and RCMP say he appears to be a Caucasian man who was wearing a black jacket and hat.

RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Jame Grandy said vehicle theft is a crime of opportunity.

“Making sure to lock doors and remove valuables from sight can dramatically reduce the chances of becoming a victim,” he said in the release. “Additionally, not leaving your vehicle running unattended, or hiding keys inside the vehicle.”

Cpl. Grandy provided a list of prevention tips:

• Never leave anything valuable, like keys, wallets, purses, or shopping bags, in your vehicle.
• Point surveillance cameras toward a view of your vehicle.
• Remove all cash from plain view. Loose change can be an incentive for a thief to break into your vehicle.
• If you must leave bags or valuables in the car, store them in the trunk. Never leave them in plain sight.
• Never leave your vehicle running. It takes seconds for a thief to hop into your car and drive off.
• Park in a well-lit, high visibility area, or in a secure garage when possible.
• Close and lock all vehicle windows and doors.
• Report any suspicious people or activity around vehicles or residences to police.

 For more information on preventing auto crime go here.

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