The Regina Police Service is encouraging members of the public to practice crime prevention strategies in our community during the holiday season and in the New Year.
If you see any strange activity, people, or vehicles in your neighbourhood that you aren’t sure of, call police and report the activity. You never know if it’s someone who’s lost in your area, or someone who plans on getting lost…with your neighbour’s property in hand.
Here are some tips to ensure the security of your home, vehicle, and property:
- Do not leave your vehicle running, unattended, with keys in the ignition. This is the number one opportunity for auto theft in winter weather.
- Park in well-lit areas and always lock your vehicle. Do not store garage door openers, spare keys to your vehicle or another family vehicle in your car.
- Consider buying a steering wheel locking device or other anti-theft device and use it, every time you park your vehicle.
- Do not leave valuables in plain sight, even if your vehicle is locked. This is especially important now that people are out Christmas shopping and may think it safe to leave gifts and other purchases unattended in a vehicle. Remove all valuables from your vehicle, or if you are out shopping, hide them in the trunk. Out of sight, out of mind.
- Always lock your house when you leave; if you have an alarm system, use it. It is also good practice once you’ve entered your home, to lock your doors behind you.
- Make it clear to any observer that your home is occupied; clear sidewalks of snow; empty your mailbox; keep a light on in your house and keep the exterior of your home well lit.
- If you are travelling during the Christmas season, ask a trusted neighbour or friend to give your house that same “lived-in” look while you are away.
- If you observe any criminal activity in your neighbourhood, report it to police. In an emergency, call 9-1-1. If you can do so safely, take note of details like clothing descriptions or license plate numbers and report this information to police. If the incident has already occurred, still report it to police, but call 306-777-7500 instead of 9-1-1.
With all of the extra activity and preparations for the holiday season remember to secure your vehicle, home, and property. Make these crime prevention strategies part of your daily routine.
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