The Regina Police Service is asking Regina residents to take a critical look at their homes, properties and personal safety practices with the goal of preventing crime in our neighbourhoods this Spring and Summer.
At the recent meeting of the Regina Board of Police Commissioners, the year-to-date statistics presented showed an increase in some property crimes, particularly theft under $5,000. Many of these offences are incidents where items are stolen from vehicles. Police remind vehicle owners to remove all items of value from plain view in the vehicle, including sunglasses, CD’s and loose change. Lock your vehicle and, if you have the opportunity, park in a garage. Lock the garage doors. These practices take time, but taking a few minutes to remove the opportunity for a crime can save damage, dollars and emotional upset in the long term. (Monthly crime statistics are available on the Regina Police Service website at www.reginapolice.ca. )
While working in the yard and spring-cleaning, Regina residents are reminded to ensure their doors are locked. In fact, even when you are in your residence, it is a good idea to lock your doors behind you. Too many people leave valuables like purses, wallets and car keys within easy reach just inside the front door. Locking your doors prevents a thief from stepping inside long enough to grab your purse and disappear.
Another common scenario is one where a suspect will distract a homeowner with a false report of a suspicious person or damage in the back yard. When the homeowner goes to the back of the property, a second suspect enters the house to steal keys, wallets or other belongings. In this situation, remember to lock your front door or have another household member remain at the front door.
When warmer weather arrives, some residents may leave windows or doors open in order to cool the house. Recognize that these may be common points of entry for would-be thieves. Don’t leave your house open while you are away and take steps to minimize your vulnerability while you are at home. Always store bicycles, sports equipment and tools behind locked doors at end of day. Try to view your own house and property the way a thief might see it; identify vulnerabilities and take steps to make things more secure.
Helping Regina residents live in safety is a priority for the Regina Police Service. Every one of us has a role to play in neighbourhood and community safety. Take crime prevention seriously by safeguarding your property and employing good personal safety strategies. Always report any activity that seems suspicious. Anyone who sees a crime in progress should call 9-1-1. Anyone who has information that could assist police is asked to contact the Regina Police Service at 777-6500 or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
