News release
North Vancouver RCMP shares holiday safety tips
December 9, 2025
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North Vancouver, British Columbia
From: North Vancouver RCMP
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The holiday season is approaching, bringing increased shopping, deliveries, and travel across North Vancouver. Unfortunately, this time of year also sees a rise in mail theft, distraction thefts, and theft from vehicles, often involving gifts left visible in parked cars. North Vancouver RCMP is reminding residents to take extra precautions to help keep their property safe.
With more online shopping and package deliveries occurring in December, police are encouraging residents to take steps to protect their mail. Whenever possible, individuals are urged to choose “signature required” delivery or leave instructions for packages to be placed out of sight. Tracking shipments helps ensure items are retrieved promptly, and delivery service pickup locations offer secure alternatives for large or valuable orders. Police also note that doorbell cameras and motion-activated lighting can deter thieves. Any suspicious activity around mailboxes should be reported immediately.
Police are also warning the public about distraction thefts, which tend to increase during busy holiday shopping periods. These incidents often occur in mall parking lots, stores, and crowded areas where suspects create a distraction to steal wallets, phones, or bags. North Vancouver RCMP advises residents to stay aware of their surroundings, keep bags zipped and close to the body, shield PINs during transactions, and avoid leaving personal items unattended in shopping carts.
Theft from vehicles remains a common seasonal concern. Officers are asking the public not to leave gifts, shopping bags, or valuables in plain sight inside their vehicles. If items must be stored in a vehicle, police recommend placing them in the trunk before arriving at a destination. Parking in well-lit, high-traffic areas and ensuring all doors and windows are locked can further reduce the risk of a break-in.
“For those traveling during the holidays, police are reminding residents that accumulated mail or packages left at the door can signal that no one is home,” said Corporal Mansoor Sahak Media Relations Officer for the North Vancouver RCMP. Asking a trusted neighbour to collect mail, shovel snow, or keep an eye on the property helps maintain the appearance of activity. Ensuring doors and windows are secure, using timers for indoor lighting, and installing exterior motion lighting can also enhance home security.
North Vancouver RCMP continues to encourage the public to report any criminal or suspicious activity. Anyone who witnesses a crime in progress is urged to call 911 immediately. For non-emergencies, residents can contact the North Vancouver RCMP at 604-985-1311 or report crime using the online crime reporting tool.