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November 26, 2025
How to Prevent Car Theft and Keep Toronto Neighbourhoods Secure
By
Poppy Lodge
Car theft continues to be a serious problem affecting neighbourhoods in Toronto. In March, the Toronto police reported that the first quarter of 2024 saw twice as many automobile thefts as the first quarter of 2023. The total number of carjackings in 2023 was over 12,200. Vancouver, for comparison, saw only 779 motor vehicle thefts last year.
What can Toronto residents do to keep their cars secure and prevent car thefts? In this blog, we’ll explore best practices for vehicle safety and dive into how Blackbird Security is helping Toronto’s residential neighbourhoods elevate their safety and security.
Use Anti-Theft Devices In Your Car
One simple way to deter car thieves is to utilize anti-theft protection devices. Visible deterrents such as steering wheel locks and tire clamps can discourage thieves from attempting to steal your vehicle. These tools make it more difficult and time-consuming to steal a vehicle, increasing the likelihood that the thief will be deterred from attempting the theft. Additionally, consider investing in an alarm system that includes motion sensors, glass break detectors, and alarms to deter potential thieves.
Practice Car Safety Best Practices
When it’s possible, park in a secure parking facility such as a parkade or garage equipped with security cameras or with a parking enforcement security guard in attendance. If you must park on the street, be sure to park in a well-lit and busy location, such as on a major street. The presence of witnesses is a strong deterrent for potential criminals, who do not want to be seen while stealing vehicles. Additionally, be sure to remove any valuables from your car overnight. You should always lock your doors and secure your windows before exiting your vehicle.
Educate Yourself and Your Community
Stay informed about the latest car theft trends by paying attention to the news and guidance from law enforcement. Attend community meetings, participate in local safety programs, and share knowledge with friends, family, and neighbours.
Prioritize Your Safety
As stated by Toronto police, carjackers will sometimes break into the homes of their victims in order to steal car keys. If this unfortunate scenario happens to you, do not attempt to engage the thief or prevent the theft. Instead, prioritize your safety as well as the safety of your family members by calling 911 immediately and keeping your distance from the burglars.
How Blackbird Security Is Helping To Reduce Car Theft In Toronto
Blackbird Security is partnering with some Toronto neighbourhoods to provide mobile security patrol services to mitigate car thefts overnight. This provides a deterring factor against potential criminals, who are far less likely to commit a crime in the presence of a security guard.
Blackbird Security CEO, Ranko Vukovic, was featured by CTV News Toronto in a segment about car thefts in Toronto. Watch the news clip below.
Mobile Security Patrols Reduce Car Thefts
Mobile security patrols involve a security guard patrolling a neighbourhood in a marked security vehicle to monitor for crimes and ensure safety. These patrols provide a visible and active security presence, which serves as a deterrent to potential carjackers.
Mobile security patrols are versatile and can cover large areas efficiently, making them ideal for residential neighbourhoods. In the case of a triggered alarm from one of the cars in the neighbourhood, the mobile security guard will be able to respond immediately and effectively. Mobile patrol guards work in tandem with our 24/7 Control Centre to ensure this swift response.
Part of a mobile security guard’s duty includes writing detailed reports. In the unfortunate case of an automobile break-in or theft, these reports provide law enforcement with vital information and evidence, helping streamline the process for residents.
Partner With Toronto’s Best Neighbourhood Security Company
Preventing car theft requires a combination of proactive measures and community collaboration. Taking steps to keep your car secure with the best practices discussed in this blog is important for maintaining personal security, but partnering with a professional security company can bring your protective measures to the next level across the neighbourhood.
Get in touch with us at the form below to learn how your community can partner with Blackbird Security to keep your neighbourhood secure.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What services do security companies offer?
At Blackbird Security, we offer a range of security services, such as:
- On-site uniform security
- Luxury suit & tie security
- Mobile patrols
- Alarm response
- Access control
- CCTV monitoring
- Event security
- Loss prevention (undercover security)
- Tactical Security
- Concierge/Front Desk Security
- Executive Protection
- Office & Facilities Security
- Government Security
- Parking Enforcement
- Residential Security
These services work in unison to safeguard businesses, people, and assets, offering peace of mind and comprehensive protection.At Blackbird Security, we are industry leaders in providing all of these services. Our expertise ensures tailored security solutions that meet your specific requirements. Browse further to learn more: Blackbird Security Services - Blackbird Security
- On-site uniform security
- Luxury suit & tie security
- Mobile patrols
- Alarm response
- Access control
- CCTV monitoring
- Event security
- Loss prevention (undercover security)
- Tactical Security
- Concierge/Front Desk Security
- Executive Protection
- Office & Facilities Security
- Government Security
- Parking Enforcement
- Residential Security
These services work in unison to safeguard businesses, people, and assets, offering peace of mind and comprehensive protection.At Blackbird Security, we are industry leaders in providing all of these services. Our expertise ensures tailored security solutions that meet your specific requirements. Browse further to learn more: Blackbird Security Services - Blackbird Security
Can security services be customized?
Many providers offer standard security programs, but Blackbird Security emphasizes a collaborative approach to customization. By considering factors such as your industry, location, size, and specific risks, we work closely with you to design security strategies that fit your needs. This might include adjusting patrol schedules, reporting frequency, or tailoring patrol routes to align with your operations.This is possible through our dedicated Client Services team as well as our in-house Control Centre and Reporting teams. Customization is a fundamental part of how we provide effective and seamless security solutions
Are security providers in Canada regulated?
Yes, most countries and regions (including Canada) have licensing bodies and regulations that govern security providers. Check local laws to ensure your provider complies with these standards.
How do I measure the effectiveness of security measures?
Measuring the effectiveness of security measures involves tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate how well systems and personnel are meeting safety and asset protection goals. Start by analyzing incident response times, reductions in theft, vandalism, or shrinkage, and overall resolution rates for reported issues. Comparing pre- and post-implementation data helps demonstrate tangible improvements in safety and loss prevention. Regular audits, surveys, and risk assessment reports can also gauge the reliability and perception of security measures.
Key KPIs to track include:
- Incident response times: Faster responses to alarms or emergencies.
- Reduction in theft/vandalism: Compare loss data before and after implementation.
- Patrol compliance: Track patrol frequency and adherence via GPS or logs.
- False alarm rates: Lower rates ensure focus on real threats.
- Client/Employee satisfaction: Gather feedback to measure confidence in security.
- Client services: Dedicated account representative who supports ongoing needs & can adjust strategy as needed
Key KPIs to track include:
- Incident response times: Faster responses to alarms or emergencies.
- Reduction in theft/vandalism: Compare loss data before and after implementation.
- Patrol compliance: Track patrol frequency and adherence via GPS or logs.
- False alarm rates: Lower rates ensure focus on real threats.
- Client/Employee satisfaction: Gather feedback to measure confidence in security.
- Client services: Dedicated account representative who supports ongoing needs & can adjust strategy as needed
What level of support can I expect from Blackbird Security
We ensure all of our clients have the utmost support for their businesses, and there's a few ways we do this:
- Allowing access to our 24/7 Control centre for all clients, which is based out of our head office in Vancouver, BC. Clients can call this centre and have a mobile guard swiftly deployed to their business for any spontaneous incidents that occur. We believe in operating it inhouse to ensure all services are streamlined and optimized for the best communication. Our control canter can be reached at this number for current clients: 1-888-991-2622.
- We have a dedicated client services team which directly communicates with clients on a day-to-day basis. Our client services often perform site check ups and can assist with any issues that arise at your business.
Your peace of mind is our priority. We’re more than a service provider—we’re a partner in protecting your business. With our team working tirelessly to anticipate and resolve challenges, you can focus on running your business with confidence, knowing we’re always here to support you. Together, we build safer environments and stronger partnerships, every step of the way.
- Allowing access to our 24/7 Control centre for all clients, which is based out of our head office in Vancouver, BC. Clients can call this centre and have a mobile guard swiftly deployed to their business for any spontaneous incidents that occur. We believe in operating it inhouse to ensure all services are streamlined and optimized for the best communication. Our control canter can be reached at this number for current clients: 1-888-991-2622.
- We have a dedicated client services team which directly communicates with clients on a day-to-day basis. Our client services often perform site check ups and can assist with any issues that arise at your business.
Your peace of mind is our priority. We’re more than a service provider—we’re a partner in protecting your business. With our team working tirelessly to anticipate and resolve challenges, you can focus on running your business with confidence, knowing we’re always here to support you. Together, we build safer environments and stronger partnerships, every step of the way.
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