Burglars have increasingly been capitalizing on unlocked vehicles and the Kalispell Police Department is hoping to raise awareness through a new “Lock it or Lose it” campaign.
Wade Rademacher, administrative captain for KPD, said thefts near commercial sites have become a noticeable problem because vehicles are being left unlocked and valuables are visibly left out in the open.
“People always say, ‘This is Kalispell, I should be able to leave my car unlocked,’” Rademacher said. “But it seems probably in the last five years (thefts are) becoming more rampant.”
Rademacher led efforts to develop signs that can be posted in parking lots to remind shoppers to defend themselves from theft. Hutton Ranch jumped on board and purchased 10 signs right away. Any other businesses interested in purchasing the “Lock it or Lose it” signs should contact Rademacher at 406-758-7780.