RCMP volunteers patrolling parking lots across the Central Okanagan

KELOWNA – While you are shopping for the perfect gift, a thief might be looking to score from your car so RCMP volunteers are out patrolling to deter criminal opportunists.

According to a release issued today, Dec. 13, there are nearly 80 volunteers throughout the Regional District of Central Okanagan patrolling malls and retail store parking lots.

You can expect to see highly visible citizen’s on patrol volunteers deterring criminals and handing out the City of Kelowna holiday edition don't be an easy target tip cards, says Kelowna RCMP Media Relations Officer Cpl. Jesse O’Donaghey.

"As Christmas approaches, RCMP Volunteers throughout the Central Okanagan will be increasing the frequency of their parking lot patrols, which take place morning, afternoon and into the evening," says O’Donaghey.

To remind people of the necessity for minimizing the risk of someone breaking into your vehicle, prevention infractions called crime prevention notices will be issued to vehicles that are seen not secure or with visible items in them.

Also, volunteers might leave reminders to vehicle owners if they see expired validation decals, which is often an indicator that the vehicle's insurance has expired.

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