OPP remind residents to secure houses while away at cottage

June 20, 2013 · 0 Comments

Dufferin OPP remind residents to ensure that their residences both primary and seasonal are secured while they are away on vacation.

• The more private an area or entrance is the more likely it is to attract the attention of a criminal. Trim all trees and shrubs that block sight lines to your windows and doors.

• During the evening is keep visible interior or exterior lighting that gives the impression that you are home.

• Install outside lighting to eliminate dark areas around windows and doors. Use motion sensor lights set on timers.

• The security of windows at the sides of doors can improved by adding poly-carbonate film to strengthen windows from attack.

• Ensure all your exterior doors have a deadbolt with at least a one inch throw the screws that secure your entry doors should be 2 ½ inches long

• Every entrance door should have clear view through a wide angle peep hole.

• Thefts from garages are one of the most common yet easily prevented crimes. Keep garage doors closed and locked

• Keep ladders in the garage

• Mark all valuables with an engraver and post Safe-Guard Ontario stickers on your windows and doors to deter theft and assist in the recovery of stolen goods if they are lost or stolen.

• Call the OPP Communications Centre immediately at 1-888-310-1122 to report any suspicious activity or suspicious vehicles in the area. Information such as suspect physical descriptions, suspect vehicles and direction of travel are useful tools for investigators.

Dufferin OPP has two trained Safe-Guard review officers who by appointment are able to do Crime Prevention Audit on your residence and make helpful cost effective suggestions on how to better secure your household or season residence.

By educating communities and being proactive in the reduction of crime, the OPP remains dedicated to eliminating the opportunity for crime in support of the OPP’s vision of Safe Communities – A Secure Ontario.