RCMP urge proper precautions as break-ins at seasonal properties up 8%

By ANNA SMITH Local Journalism Initiative on October 18, 2024.

asmith@medicinehatnews.com

With cooler weather rolling in, many Albertans are closing up seasonal properties for the season, and Alberta’s RCMP has provided tips to help keep these spaces secure.

“In Alberta RCMP jurisdictions, there have been 348 break and enters to seasonal properties and cottages so far this year; this is an 8 per cent increase from the previous year,” an RCMP release states.

The offseason tends to be when these incidents occur the most, as there are fewer people around and less chance of being discovered quickly.

To help prevent residents from becoming part of this statistic, the RCMP recommends taking home all valuables, including expensive tools and electronics. Anything left behind should be locked up properly, and owners should consider posting signage that states all valuables have been removed.

Any outdoor furniture should be removed, and if it’s a hunting property, be sure to secure all firearms, even within a locked property, RCMP say.

Trim shrubs and trees to create clear sight lines, and instal timers on interior lights to give the illusion the property isn’t vacant. The illusion of use, such as clearing snow and yard maintenance can deter would be break-ins. Inspect the property regularly so damage can be reported in a timely fashion.

“While crime prevention should be part of our everyday habits, it’s especially important to consider when vacating your property for an extended period,” said the RCMP.

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