Auto-theft Prevention

Vehicle theft can be stressful, costly and it can affect your feelings of safety. While no prevention measure can guarantee a vehicle will not be stolen, there are a few simple steps you can take to help reduce the risk and make your vehicle a harder target.

These tips can help you protect your vehicle

• Lock your doors, close your windows and never leave your vehicle running unattended.
• Add layers of protection, such as an immobilizer, kill switch, OBD-port lock, alarm or tracking system.
• Keep keys, spare keys, ownership and insurance documents out of the vehicle.
• Store electronic keys away from doors and windows and consider using a signal-blocking pouch or container.
• Remove valuables and personal information from your vehicle.
• Park in a locked garage when possible or choose a well-lit area.
• Consider exterior lighting or security cameras around your home.
• Use visible deterrents like a steering wheel or wheel lock.
• Before installing aftermarket equipment, check with your vehicle manufacturer or a qualified installer to make sure it is compatible.

Keep important vehicle information somewhere safe

If your vehicle is stolen, having the following information ready can help with the police report and investigation:

• Licence plate number and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
• Year, make, model and colour
• Distinguishing features, damage or modifications
• Serial numbers for installed equipment
• Information about any tracking system installed in the vehicle

Tip: Take photos of your vehicle and keep them somewhere other than inside the vehicle.

If your vehicle is stolen

Call 9-1-1 if the theft is in progress or there is an immediate danger to you or someone else.

If there is no immediate danger, call the Guelph Police Service non-emergency line at 519-824-1212.

When filing a report, police will ask you:

• Where and when the vehicle was last seen
• Whether it was locked and whether keys were inside or accessible
• Vehicle details, including licence plate, VIN, year, make, model and colour
• Distinguishing features, damage or modifications
• The contents of the car
• Information about any tracking system installed in the vehicle
• Any available video surveillance or other evidence

Stolen vehicles cannot currently be reported through our online reporting system.

See something suspicious?

Report suspicious activity around vehicles, especially if someone is checking multiple vehicles, trying door handles or watching parked vehicles.

If a crime is in progress or someone is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1.

For non-emergency suspicious activity, call 519-824-1212.

Do not put yourself at risk. Do not approach or confront anyone you suspect may be involved in a crime. If it is safe, note details such as a description, vehicle information, licence plate and direction of travel.