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Auto theft costs Canadians close to $1 billion through the payment of higher insurance premiums. Insurers look at where you live when they calculate your premium. If you live in an area that has a high auto theft rate, you will probably be paying a higher price for your insurance than if you lived in an area where a vehicle was less likely to be stolen.

To protect yourself and reduce the costs associated with auto theft, always take a moment to assess your risk and follow these simple steps.

Prevent theft or break-ins

• Never leave valuables in your vehicle such as laptops, cell phones, purse etc..
• Always close all windows, sunroof and lock doors.
• Park in open, well-lighted and populated areas near your destination.
• Don’t leave your spare keys in your vehicle. An experienced thief knows all the hiding places.
• Don’t leave an unattended vehicle running, even if you’re only gone for a minute.
• Always activate the alarm system when leaving the vehicle.

Prevent theft of the vehicle itself

• If your vehicle is rear wheel drive, back into your driveway. Rear wheels lock on four wheel drive vehicles, making them difficult to tow. Front wheel vehicles should be parked front end first.
• Always use your emergency brake when parking.
• Turn your wheels sharply toward the curb when parking on a street.
• Keep garage doors locked even when you are home.

Common theft locations

• Shopping Malls
• Commuter Train Stations
• Movie Theatres
• Airports
• Automotive Dealerships
• Residental Driveways

Always protect yourself; it takes one minute to lock your door.  It may take a lifetime to recover what you’ve lost.  Be safe. 
Sources:
http://www.articlecity.com/articles/auto_and_trucks/article_1503.shtml
http://www.opp.ca/Intranetdev/groups/public/documents/publicrelations/opp_000716.pdf
http://www.sandiego.gov/police/prevention/autotheft.shtml
https://www.insurance.com/quotes/Article.aspx/Top_10_Ways_To_Prevent_Auto_Theft/artid/150