Trimming trees, moving items that might obscure the view from a window, and simply locking doors are some of the simple ways that residents can protect themselves from thieves, say Lac La Biche RCMP.
Corp. Glenn Ellsworth at the Lac La Biche detachment says a recent list of precautions for area residents is a "friendly reminder" on ways to reduce opportunities for thieves looking for an easy grab.
"Being a victim of property crime can be traumatic, and cause people to feel violated when thieves rummage through and steal their property," says Ellsworth, saying tips for around the home, yards and vehicles can help to reduce the chances of being victimized.
The local detachment's reminder comes as RCMP across the country provide similar cautions to residents from their 2020 Valentine's Themed Love it or Lose it campaign.
Tips to protect you from thieves:
- Keep windows covered to keep valuables out of sight.
- Lock your doors and windows to your residence and garage at all times.
- Change pass codes on door entries from time to time.
- Install cameras and motion lights on your property.
- If away, leave a light on inside and any entrances of the residence and garage.
- Trim trees and shrubs to eliminate hiding spots for thieves if they enter your property.
- Get to know your neighbours and have them check your residence periodically if you are away.
- Report any suspicious activity to police.
- Keep inventory and document serial numbers and all valuables.
Police are also urging vehicle owners specifically to remove the temptation for thieves by removing valuables and locking doors.
"Criminals continue to target vehicles for smartphones, personal electronics, sunglasses and cash," says Ellsworth, adding that garage door openers inside vehicles, wallets and purses can also lead to follow-up crimes like home break-ins and identity theft.
Using the tips and reporting suspicious activities to the police is a crime deterrent, say police. Once a call is made, another friendly reminder to residents is to clearly mark their addresses, so police can respond quickly.
"The RCMP would like to remind residents in Lac La Biche County to place visible house numbers or rural address markers on their property to ensure timely police response," he said.
To report suspicious activity or a crime, the direct phone line for the Lac La Biche RCMP detachment is If a crime in progress is being reported, call 911.Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) is also available to area residents.
