With spring finally here and the arrival of warmer weather there have been increased reports of theft and Vandalism in the Swan Valley. Swan River RCMP provide these theft prevention tips.



Swan River RCMP Report:

Theft and vandalism

On the perimeter
Make sure there aren’t any objects lying around that could be used to break into your home (ladder, tools, etc.) or objects that could be stolen (lawnmower, bicycle, snow blower, etc.).
The street number should be visible at the front and back (where necessary) of the house, to help police or other emergency services personnel to identify your residence.

Lighting
All the access means to your home should be well lit, including temporary shelters in the winter (for cars and entrances).
Motion-activated lights can be very effective at dissuading a thief who risks being seen. However, they must be correctly calibrated to avoid the sensor being activated unnecessarily (i.e. a passing animal).

Identifying your property (engraving)
Mark your belongings (computers, stereos, etc.) by engraving them. This makes them more difficult for a thief to sell and allows the police to identify the owner if the stolen property is found.

Jewellery and valuables
If possible, don’t keep valuables at home. If you keep them at home, place them in a secure place, such as a safe.
Make a list of your valuables. Take photos or make a video. Keep your documents, accompanied by the proof of purchase, in a safe place.
Never place the packaging of new purchases, such as televisions, computers and even large appliances, on the street. Fold the cardboard boxes and put them in the recycling, or ask the delivery men to take back the old appliances and the packaging.

Doors and windows
Exterior doors should be solid, made of wood and metal clad.
It’s preferable to install a peep hole rather than a chain lock.
It’s preferable to have 2.54 cm or (1″) deadbolt locks on exterior doors.
To prevent sliding doors from being lifted up, slid along or removed from their tracks, they should be equipped with:
A security plate and/or screw in the upper track;
A metal security bar or piece of wood in the lower track (removable to provide an exit in an emergency).
Windows should be equipped with a locking device.
Sliding windows must have:
A screw fastened into the upper track;
A security bar or piece of wood in the lower track (removable to provide an exit in an emergency).

Document Personal Possessions:
Keep all of your receipts for major purchases. If they are printed on thermal paper make photocopies of them so they are readable. Take digital photos of belongings and keep them on a flash drive so they are easily accessible in case you need them. If you have a laptop it’s more likely to be stolen so storing information on it won’t help you. For video games systems and video games, make sure you have the serial numbers as well as a complete list of games. These are easy to sell items that are rarely recovered but if an arrest is made, your information can help strengthen the case. Weapons should always be stored in a lockbox; keep serial numbers of all weapons as well as a list of ammunition. If you are a collector; digital photos and detailed records of purchases could help you recover your stolen property. You might think a fire safe is a good idea; not when a thief can easily pick it up and walk out with it.

It’s a good idea to document valuables by taking photos and recording serial numbers so if the items do end up in the hands of police, it will be easy to identify them. Engraving a driver’s license number on valuables can also make them more identifiable. Property owners should contact police immediately if there is a break-in on their property.

Sources:
InfoInsurance web site: http://www.infoinsurance.ca/en/prevention/tips/theft-vandalism/protect-home/
And, various RCMP sources on the internet

Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention Tips

DO
Close the windows and lock the doors every time you leave your vehicle. Even in hot weather and even if you’ll only be gone for a moment.
Invest in a reliable anti-theft device and use it.
Park in well-lit, high traffic areas whenever you can.

Don’t
Leave valuables in your vehicle. Even if you think they’re “secured” in the glove box or the trunk.
Leave your vehicle running when you are not in it.
Leave spare keys, wallets, purses or other valuables in your vehicle.
IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING!

Public safety is everyone’s responsibility–not just the police. The easiest way for you to have an impact on public safety is by getting connected to your neighbourhood, paying attention to what is going on and letting police know about criminal or suspicious activity. Call your local RCMP detachment at: 204-734-3454.

Or, to provide information ANONYMOUSLY:
Call Manitoba Crime Stoppers toll free at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
SUBMIT a secure tip online at www.manitobacrimestoppers.com
TEXT “TIPMAN” PLUS YOUR MESSAGE to CRIMES (274637)