Hanna RCMP are warning area residents to ensure valuables are locked up following an increase in thefts.
“We are starting to see an increase in theft from unlocked vehicles as well as bikes that are unlocked,” says a release statement from Hanna RCMP Sergeant Trent Sperlie.
The statement asks residents to ensure their vehicles are locked, especially when parked overnight or when out and about.
Residents should also keep valuable items out of sight in vehicles, or not kept in vehicles, as the majority of thefts from vehicles are crimes of opportunity where thieves discover an unlocked vehicle.
Hanna RCMP are also asking residents to keep their bikes locked up when not in use as bike thefts are also a crime of opportunity.

Members of the Village of Big Valley council held a special council meeting on Thursday, June 10 to continue discussions regarding repairs to the aging water tower reservoir.
In the March 17 edition of the Mail, it was reported the village was looking to obtain quotes to repair the existing infrastructure. The village has since entered into an agreement with Knibb Development Ltd., a general contracting company based in Standard with over 40 years of experience, primarily focused on water and sewer systems.
“We did the (reservoir) in Stettler, one at Whispering Pines, one at Edson, and a few others,” said Jason Knibb during the special council meeting.
The total quote, to complete insulation and cladding of the reservoir, is estimated at $120,000. However, Mr. Knibb noted council would have the opportunity to choose between going with all recommendations at the quoted $120,000 or to pick and choose the recommendations to complete.
“You don’t have to do everything, but it does all work together to one complete project,” Knibb told council.
One recommendation is to install a polypropylene bladder. This would waterproof the tank, however, Knibb noted this would not resolve icing concerns which could cause damage to the bladder.
To prevent ice buildup Knibb suggested council consider reclading the tank, which would provide additional insulation and protect the concrete from further erosion while also improving the appearance of the tank. Another suggestion was to upgrade pumps at the nearby pumphouse to cause agitation in the tank.
Mr. Knibb and Big Valley council members discussed the proposed project at length during deliberations.
Council unanimously moved to proceed with Knibb Development Ltd. to complete interior repairs to the reservoir, and increase the previously approved budget of $140,000 to $150,000 to complete the repairs.