As residents pack up their vehicles to head out of town, it’s important to remember their absence may be noted – by thieves.
Whether it’s a day trip or a tropical getaway, a residential break in can ruin any holiday celebration fast, luckily, the RCMP has some tips to reduce the chances of that happening.

Below are some crime prevention tips to help prevent theft over the holidays.

• Don’t leave empty cartons in your carport, yard or driveway. You are advertising the fact you have a brand new flat screen TV, laptop, iPad or other very desirable object to steal.
• Close and lock all windows each time you leave your home.
• If you have an alarm, be sure to set it before you leave home.
• Do not keep ladders or tools on the outside of your home. If it can be used to gain entry into your home, keep it locked up and out of sight.
• Always keep your vehicle locked even if it’s parked in your carport or driveway. Don’t be fooled into thinking your vehicle is safe.
• While on vacation arrange for someone to shovel your driveway and park in your driveway. It’s ideal to have someone you trust, house-sit for you so your home is still lived in while you are away. If this is not possible, make sure your home looks lived in.
• Use timers on indoor lights and tamper-proof, motion sensor lights around the perimeter of your home. Lighting is the most effective crime prevention tool, since criminals do not want to be seen.
• Keep your vacation plans off social networks. It is easy to gain access to personal information once it’s entered onto a social media network.
• Make sure your house number is visible during the day and night. In an emergency you want emergency crews to find your house number as soon as possible.
• Install a door viewer so you know who is at your door before you open it.
• Get to know your neighbours. Knowing who belongs is a great way to protect yourself.
• Record serial numbers, keep a log and take pictures of items in your storage locker.
• Avoid leaving anything of value in parked vehicles and always lock vehicle doors.

For those staying home, if you see something, say something; always report suspicious activity to the police.