Vehicle theft seems to be on the rise in Fort McMurray.

589 vehicles were reported stolen to Wood Buffalo RCMP between Jan. 1, 2023, and Dec. 5, 2023.

305 vehicles were recovered however there has been an increase of 217 vehicles reported stolen since 2022, which saw 372 reports.

2021 saw 260 reports of stolen vehicles in Fort McMurray.

Stolen vehicles include cars, SUVs, trucks, and even off-highway vehicles (OHVs).

Keys left in the vehicle, whether parked or running, are commonly reported in vehicle theft.

“Vehicle theft doesn’t only affect vehicle owners. It has an impact on the greater community,” says Sgt. Sabrina Clayton with Wood Buffalo RCMP.

“Not only do thefts increase the cost of insurance across the province, but stolen vehicles can also be used for further crime, or even be put back on the market and sold to unsuspecting Albertans.”

Theft from vehicles is also on the rise, seeing 436 reports in 2023, 358 in 2022, and 168 in 2021.

Drivers are encouraged to park in a visible well-lit area, look into an automatic starter for their vehicle to warm it up, and never leave anything valuable in the car.

Anti-theft devices, such as steering wheel locks, can help prevent theft and break-ins as well.

RCMP is reminding drivers to report if their vehicle was stolen or broken into, and to not attempt to locate the suspects themselves, as it could lead to serious injury.