Travelling This Winter? CK Crime Stoppers Reminds You to Protect Your Home and Yourself
Chatham-Kent Crime Stoppers is reminding residents to take proactive steps to protect their homes and personal safety as many people prepare to travel internationally during the winter months. With colder weather driving an increase in seasonal travel, particularly to warmer destinations, Crime Stoppers is sharing safety information designed to reduce the risk of crime both at home and abroad.
“With the winter in full force this year, many people are seeking warmer weather. We want to help people ensure their vacations go smoothly and are able to enjoy themselves,” said Erica McIntosh, Crime Stoppers Program Coordinator.
Before leaving home, residents are encouraged to make their properties appear occupied. Simple actions such as placing interior lights on timers, arranging for snow removal, and asking a trusted neighbour to check on the property can significantly reduce the risk of break-ins. Mail and parcel deliveries should be paused or collected regularly, as overflowing mailboxes can signal that a home is unoccupied. Valuables should be kept out of sight, doors and windows locked and secured, and alarm systems activated if available.
CK Crime Stoppers also recommends that homeowners document valuables by recording serial numbers and taking photographs. This information can be invaluable to police if a theft does occur. Exterior lighting should be functional and left on, with motion-activated lights considered as an added deterrent. Residents should also remove items such as ladders, tools, or loose materials from around the property, as these can be used to gain access to a home.
“Crime is often about opportunity and criminals are on the lookout for homes that appear to be vacant. When your home looks like it is occupied, it drastically reduces the chances it will be targeted,” said McIntosh.
When travelling internationally, personal safety and situational awareness are equally important. Travelers should research their destination in advance, including local laws, customs, and areas to avoid. Copies of important documents such as passports, identification, and travel insurance should be kept separately from the originals, and a trusted contact at home should be provided with travel details.
Crime Stoppers advises travelers to remain vigilant in airports, transit hubs, and tourist areas, where theft and fraud are more common. Personal belongings should be kept secure and within sight at all times, and travelers should be cautious when using public Wi-Fi networks or sharing personal information. Using hotel safes for passports and extra cash can help reduce the risk of loss or theft.
Financial security is another key consideration while travelling. Informing financial institutions of travel plans can help prevent cards from being flagged for suspicious activity. Travelers should monitor bank and credit card statements regularly and report any unusual transactions immediately. Carrying limited amounts of cash and using reputable transportation and accommodation providers can further reduce risk.
Upon returning home, residents are encouraged to inspect their property for any signs of damage or suspicious activity and report concerns promptly. Quick reporting can assist police in responding effectively and may help prevent further incidents in the community.
CK Crime Stoppers emphasizes that crime prevention is a shared responsibility. By taking preventative measures before travelling and remaining alert while away, residents can help reduce opportunities for crime and contribute to safer neighbourhoods.
If you have information about a crime, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit your tip online at www.ckcrimestoppers.ca. Together, we can help keep our communities safe.
As many residents head south to escape the winter weather, CK Crime Stoppers is reminding everyone to take a few extra steps to stay safe - both at home and abroad.
