The Fort St. John RCMP are warning residents about an increase in all-terrain vehicle thefts reported in recent weeks. Police are urging owners to take extra precautions to protect their property.
Mounties say they have seen a rise in ATV thefts over the last several weeks and are reminding owners to properly secure their vehicles to help prevent them from being stolen.
According to the RCMP, storing ATVs in a locked and secure location, such as a garage or shed, can help deter thieves.
Officers are also encouraging owners to remove keys when the vehicles are not in use and to keep a record of the vehicle identification number (VIN).
Police say having the VIN recorded can assist officers in identifying and returning stolen vehicles to their rightful owners if they are recovered.
The public is encouraged to report suspicious activity involving ATVs or other property crimes to the Fort St. John RCMP.
“Our goal is to help prevent these thefts from occurring in the first place,” said Corporal Shawn Ingham, media relations officer with the Fort St. John RCMP.
The warning comes during peak summer riding season, when ATVs are commonly used throughout northeastern B.C. for recreation, work and access to remote areas.