The Portage la Prairie RCMP noticing property crimes are rising along with the temperatures. Over the last week five vehicles have been stolen, including a truck, car, SUV and two ATVs. Constable Sean O'Keefe notes the weather can play a big role in these types of crime, and says the public should ensure they're not opening themselves up to thieves.

"It's the time of year where we have people out and about. The warm weather brings people out of hibernation as it is. Much akin to last summer, where we had a lot of property thefts, break and enters into vehicles and outbuildings. If people are keeping their property open to thieves to come and take what they want, it's very difficult for us to help."

He says keeping vehicles locked, with valuable out of sight is vital to prevent theft. He notes the same applies to garages and sheds.

None of the five stolen vehicles have been recovered by RCMP, and they're requesting the public help in locating them. O'Keefe says it's not unlikely that they'll be able to find the vehicle, but says the state of those vehicles is anyone's guess.

"Last year we had an unfortunate incident of a truck being stolen in our area. It was located almost eight months later. It's not to say the vehicle's won't be found, it's a matter of the condition they'll be found in. That's the unfortunate part. In regards to smaller vehicles, such as ATVs or snowmobiles, these vehicles are often stripped down for parts or sold."

He also encourages those who notice anything suspicious in their neighbourhood to contact the RCMP.