Whitehorse RCMP are investigating and expecting further reports of damage to vehicles parked at the Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport.

Const. Julia Fox said this morning several reports of damage to vehicles parked at the airport were received over the weekend, with many vehicle owners reporting smashed windows.

“Whitehorse RCMP members are investigating and anticipate reports of mischief and theft to vehicles will increase as people return home from their trips,” Fox said.

Loose change, FM transmitters and tobacco are a few examples of items that have been stolen.

“Whitehorse RCMP encourage people to leave any items of value at home, and not in their vehicles,” police said.

“Another consideration could be to leave your vehicle at home or at a friend’s house, and get a ride to the airport.”

Highways and Public Works Minister Scott Kent also encouraged residents to take precautions during an interview early this afternoon, while noting the territory is making efforts to deal with the situation as well.

After a number of similar break-ins occurred at the airport in August, Kent directed staff to look at the cost and timelines of installing surveillance cameras in the parking lot, recognizing the government has a role to play in keeping the area safe.

While the plans for surveillance cameras remain part of the long term plan, given the most recent break-ins, Kent stressed the need to prioritize that work and do something immediately.

As work continues on the cameras, government security will be conducting four patrols each night of the parking lot.

“We wanted to move quickly,” he told the Star, noting the exact costs associated with the security patrols aren’t yet known.

The patrols will begin tonight and happen every night for the foreseeable future.