A warning to vehicle owners - thefts of catalytic converters on the rise
Thefts of catalytic converters are on the rise Winnipeg police said Wednesday
Police said in 2012, 16 were stolen. In 2013, 11 were stolen. But in 2014 to date, 18 catalytic converters have been stolen from vehicles.
Catalytic converters are part of exhaust systems that convert pollutants to less toxic material before expelled out tailpipes into the atmosphere.
Police said sport utility vehicles or SUVs in particular are targeted because they are higher off the ground.
Police said an experienced thief, using a saw, can cut the device out of your car in three minutes.
Catalytic converters contain valuable metals and can fetch between $40 and $300, police said.
Police have a number of suggestions to deter catalytic converter thieves:
- Defensive parking: Always park your vehicle in an area that allows the most visibility to passers-by.
- Effective security lighting: Good security lighting makes vehicles visible.
- Live video surveillance: Live surveillance specialists may be able to call police on your behalf, stopping catalytic converter theft before it happens.
- Monitor local news: The Winnipeg Police Service Crime Stat website and local news can give you an idea of where catalytic converter thieves are operating.
- Spread community awareness: If you hear about catalytic converter thefts in your neighbourhood or are a victim of theft tell friends and neighbhours, and post fliers.
- Welded bolts: You can have the bolts welded, but this will only weed out thieves who are armed with a wrench.
- Catalytic converter protective sleeves: Protective coverings for your catalytic converter, such as the device known as the “Catclamp,” can make it more difficult for the reciprocal saw-wielding thief to steal your converter.
- ID number etching: Etching your converter with your vehicle's VIN number will help the police track your converter back to you.
Police add if you see someone suspicious near your vehicle or others, call 911.