The Alberta RCMP is advising residents to exercise some crime prevention techniques on seasonal properties as the province enters the cold season.
According to law enforcement, crime prevention should be a part of everyday habits; however, it is especially important when leaving a property unattended for an extended period of time.
So far this year, the Alberta RCMP has reported 348 break-ins to seasonal properties and cottages, an eight percent increase from the previous year. This indicates that these incidents tend to occur the most during the off-season. Police say this is because fewer people are around to discover and report the crime quickly.
As a result, the RCMP has issued a list of steps to take when leaving your property for the season.
Police say residents should take home all valuables, including expensive tools and electronics, and properly lock up anything left behind. Additionally, property owners are advised to clean up any outdoor furniture, make sure all doors and windows are locked, and try to visit properties regularly, even during the off-season.
Those with properties for hunting are asked to ensure all firearms or other hunting equipment is properly stored and secured, even in a locked property.
The RCMP also takes a page out of Home Alone’s book when they say property owners should consider installing timers on interior lights to give the illusion that someone is there and installing motion sensor lights at entrances or out-buildings for the same reason.
Interested property owners can learn more safety tips on the RCMP’s YouTube page.
