By Joanne Dorr
The Haldimand Press
The majority of calls received by the OPP are property crime incidents. Here are some ways to reduce your odds of becoming a victim of property crime.
- Lock doors and windows, even if you’re only going out for a short time. Install quality locks and a deadbolt on each outside door.
- If you are going away, have someone pick up your mail, and keep the grass cut or the driveway shoveled. This will make your home look lived in.
- Don’t post messages on social media indicating you are going away on vacation, as this will alert thieves of an easy target. Post your photos after you return.
- Ensure your outdoor lights work and consider motion sensor lighting to deter unwanted visitors.
- Trees, shrubs, and fences create hiding spots for criminals. Keep your landscaping groomed and limit private fencing.
- Keep sheds, barns, and storage buildings locked to protect their contents.
- Always secure your vehicle doors when parking your vehicle, even if you are only going to be there for a few minutes.
- Remove valuables from your vehicle, as these can tempt thieves to break in. If you can’t, then keep them from plain view.
- Park in well-lit areas with high traffic.
- Clean out your garage and park your vehicle in it, locking your vehicle and the garage door.
- Get to know your neighbours and be able to recognize what is normal and not normal around their property. Report suspicious activity to the police.
“SUVs and pickup trucks are commonly stolen vehicles,” says OPP Community Safety Officer Mary Gagliardi, noting that ultimately any vehicle can be a target. She added that thieves have begun using tools that bypass locking devices on cars, making it especially important to never leave purses, wallets, and other valuables in vehicles.
With the same sense of urgency, Gagliardi recommends installing functioning security cameras around your home and, if possible, getting a dog as a pet. Both deter criminals and help protect your home.
The Haldimand OPP reminds the public to report suspicious vehicles and/or persons to the police immediately by calling 911. If you have seen something or know something about a past crime, call 1-888-310-1122.
