Alberta RCMP provides tips to prevent residential break and enters, usually ‘crimes of opportunities’

Lighting: Ensure your yard is well-lit. Consider installing motion sensor lights at every entry.
Sightlines: Maintain clear sightlines to yards, garages, and entries to prevent criminals from hiding. Make sure trees and bushes aren’t overgrown, creating cover for a potential thief.
Gates: A locked gate can help deter a criminal who may not want to waste time trying to get through.
Windows: Keep windows covered and locked when you’re not home. An empty house is a criminal’s playground.
Alarms: Consider installing a security system, especially on seasonal properties or if you travel often. This will help ensure that if anything does happen to your property, authorities will be alerted.
Locks: Always lock any sheds or garages. Keep valuable items like lawn mowers, barbeques, and bikes stored out of sight.

“The Alberta RCMP encourages the public to report any criminal or suspicious activity to police,” they added. “If you discover a crime has taken place on your property, you should report it to the police immediately. Reports tell us where to look, who to look for, and where to patrol in the future.”

If you see something suspicious, report it to your local police service. If you see a crime in progress, call 911. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store. To contact the RCMP non-emergency line within any Alberta RCMP jurisdiction call 310-RCMP (7267).

by Ian Gustafson

Alberta RCMP provides tips to prevent residential break and enters, usually ‘crimes of opportunities’

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