Chatham-Kent Crime Stoppers Offers Fall Home Safety and Security Tips
As summer winds down and the days become shorter, Chatham-Kent Crime Stoppers is encouraging residents to take a few simple steps to prepare their homes, vehicles and properties for the fall season.
“Chatham-Kent is home to four very distinct seasons and as we head towards fall, this is the perfect time be thinking about how we can make sure our homes are safe,” said Erica McIntosh, Coordinator with Chatham-Kent Crime Stoppers. “Plus, it's also a perfect time to take a moment and make sure our vehicles are also secured from curious eyes. Put away any change or gift cards that could be sitting out in the open. Be sure to stow away anything that could be attractive to thieves.”
Fall maintenance can also be an opportunity to identify and address potential security concerns around the home. Residents are encouraged to:
Check doors and windows to make sure locks and hardware are working properly. Keep doors and windows locked, even when you are home.
Improve exterior lighting and replace non-working bulbs. As daylight hours decrease, working motion-sensitive lights can improve visibility around entrances and discourage unwanted activity.
Trim shrubs, trees and other landscaping that could create hiding places or block views of doors and windows. Keep yards tidy and remove fallen leaves, branches and debris.
Secure outdoor equipment. Ladders, tools, bicycles, patio furniture and BBQs can be attractive to thieves. Store items in a locked garage or shed when possible, or secure them with a lock or cable.
Check garages, sheds, gates and fences to ensure they close and lock securely.
Test home security systems, cameras, alarms, smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace batteries where needed.
When away from home, make the property look occupied. Ask a trusted neighbour to collect mail and consider using timers for interior lights.
Vehicles should receive a fall security check as well. Lock doors, close windows and park in well-lit areas when possible. Remove cash, gift cards, electronics, bags, tools and other valuables from sight. Even items that have little monetary value can attract attention if they are visible from outside the vehicle. Crime Stoppers notes that many thefts from homes and vehicles are crimes of opportunity, making preventative steps important.
“Crime prevention starts with the small things we do every day,” McIntosh said. “Taking a few minutes to look around your home, yard and vehicle can help reduce opportunities for theft and make our community safer.”
Residents who see suspicious activity or have information about a crime are encouraged to contact police. Information about criminal activity can also be shared anonymously with Chatham-Kent Crime Stoppers.
For more crime prevention information or to submit an anonymous tip, visit www.ckcrimestoppers.ca or call 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
With colder weather on its way, now is a great time to make sure that all of your outdoor lighting is working and the light bulbs are functioning. Not only does it improve home safety, but it can be a deterrent for criminals.
