CAR OWNERS URGED TO TAKE EXTRA PRECAUTIONS AGAINST AUTO THEFT

Released on May 10, 1996

Clay Serby, minister responsible for Saskatchewan Government Insurance
(SGI), today urged car owners to take extra precautions with their
vehicles due to the growing problem of auto theft in Saskatchewan,
especially in Regina and Saskatoon.

Based on SGI claims data, 3,234 cars were stolen in the province in
1995, compared to 2,491 in 1994 and 1,888 in 1993.

Serby suggests that vehicle owners take the following precautions:

park in visible, busy areas;

always leave vehicles locked;

never leave vehicles running while unattended, even with doors
locked, and

invest in anti-theft devices.

"Considering the degree of the problem and the cost and time involved
for vehicle owners who have their cars stolen, taking extra measures is
very worthwhile," Serby said.

Owners of Jeep Cherokees and General Motors vehicles should make
special efforts to protect their vehicles, as these models are the most
popular choices of auto thieves.

"SGI's vehicle compounds are full of stolen vehicles and the problem is
taking a toll on claim costs," Serby added.

"The participation and assistance of the public is especially
important, as the cost of damage claims is increasing. This is due not
only to the increasing number of claims caused in part by auto theft
but also to the new technology in vehicle design."

Through the co-operation of the public and programs like Hot Cars,
initiated earlier this spring in Regina and Saskatoon, police, SGI and
local Crime Stoppers groups are hoping that auto theft can be reduced.

"It is our hope that through proactive partnerships with police and
other law enforcement agencies, we will begin to reduce auto theft,"
Serby said.

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For more information, contact:

Darcy McKenzie
Communications
SGI
Regina
Phone: (306) 751-1347