Once dubbed the car theft capital of Canada, Langley has seen a 65 per cent drop in vehicle thefts and break-ins since 2003, according to ICBC.
The B.C. Liberals are crediting Langley’s success to the Bait Car program which celebrates its 10th anniversary this month.
“Bait cars have been a resounding success in Langley and across the province. British Columbia is a world leader in auto theft prevention and with the help of IMPACT (Integrated Municipal Provincial auto Crime Team) and the bait car program, we will continue to see car theft rates drop,” said Rich Coleman, MLA for Fort Langley-Aldergrove. Coleman was Solicitor General when the Bait Car program was rolled out.
“Langley families can feel confident that our community and streets are safer, due in part to the impressive successes of IMPACT and the bait car program,” said Langely MLA Mary Polak.
The Bait Car Program was started in 2002, after a huge spike in vehicles being stolen.
British Columbia is home to North America’s largest Bait Car Program while IMPACT, keeps the fleet up to date by making almost any vehicle a bait car.
Bait trailers were introduced last year and commercial vehicles, including Bobcats, are coming out this year as part of program upgrades.
Police have also used boats and ATVs as bait.
Stealing vehicles has of course become more difficult since immobilizers became standard in every vehicle in Canada since 2007.
According to ICBC, in 2011, auto car theft dropped 20 per cent which builds on the previous year’s 22 per cent drop.
Protect your vehicle from theft:
• If you have an older vehicle not equipped with an immobilizer — use an anti-theft device.
• Park in secure, well-lit areas.
• Remove your valuables.
• Always lock doors and close windows, even if you are just away from your vehicles for a few minutes.
• Keep your garage door opener out of sight.
• If parking on the street outside your residence, take your garage door opener with you.
• Wait for the garage door gate to close behind you.
For more information on the Bait Car Program visit: http://www.baitcar.com.