This holiday season Burnaby RCMP is calling on all Burnaby residents to be vigilant and to make sure they’re not an easy target for thieves.
From leaving gifts in the back seat of a vehicle to unsecured doors and windows, lots of property crime around this time of year is preventable, says Corporal Daniela Panesar, We want Burnaby residents to follow our advice to prevent thieves from having an opportunity to ruin your Christmas.
12 TIPS FOR SECURITY AROUND YOUR HOME
If your home is going to be empty over the holiday season make sure it looks lived in. Use timers for lights or have a neighbour look after your home while you’re away.
Use 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.
Close and lock all windows and doors each time you leave your home – this includes windows where extension cords may be running through to power exterior holiday lights.
If you have an alarm, ensure 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.
Keep your vacation plans off social networks. It is easy to gain access to personal information once it’s entered onto Facebook or another social network.
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.
Always report suspicious activity to the police.
Don’t leave empty boxes in your carport, yard or driveway. You are advertising the fact you have brand new purchases in your home.
Pick up your mail regularly and if you’re shopping online, ensure someone is home to receive your delivery or have it shipped to a more secure location such as a post office.
If shopping online make sure your home WiFi is password protected.
Take pictures and record serial numbers of all your valuables and try not to store them or large cash amounts at home.
