Whether it’s a day trip or a tropical getaway, a residential break in can ruin any holiday celebration fast, luckily, the Kamloops RCMP Crime Prevention Unit has some tips to reduce the chances of that happening.
As you’re working on planning your getaway, take the time to review and incorporate crime prevention strategies for when you’re away, said Corporal Dana Napier, Kamloops RCMP Crime Prevention Unit. Remember that little things such as posting you’re on vacation to social media can potentially open the door to thieves looking to capitalize on your absence.
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/mow the lawn 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. Know who is there before you open your door and home to a stranger.
- Get to know your neighbours. Knowing who belongs is a great way to protect yourself.
- Don’t let strangers in your building. Most people will understand that you are not being rude by not letting them in, and your neighbours will thank you for helping to keep the building safe.
- 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.