Alberta RCMP provides tips to prevent seasonal property crime

With colder days approaching, the Alberta RCMP is providing tips to avoid seasonal property crime.

Property crime is often a crime of opportunity. The off-season tends to be when these incidents occur the most as there are less people around. Follow the below tips to help avoid becoming a victim:

• Store your off-road vehicles out of sight, ideally in a locked garage, shed, or storage unit. Empty all gas and block each vehicle with physical barriers such as fencing or wheel clamps to make them difficult to remove.

• Secure farm equipment in locked buildings, use wheel clamps or remove batteries. Keep keys in a separate, secure location. Maintain a log of serial numbers and equipment descriptions. Mark equipment with security markings, such as your postal code on the top of trailers.

• Take home all valuables from your seasonal property, including expensive tools and electronics, and properly lock up anything left behind. Consider posting signage that states all valuables have been removed.

• Put away any outdoor furniture.

• Ensure all doors, windows, gates, and outbuildings are secured.

• If storing firearms other hunting equipment, ensure they are properly secured.

• Consider security cameras, motion-activated lights, and GPS trackers for high-value equipment.

To learn more about seasonal property crime, follow our social media accounts on Facebook (@RCMPinAlberta) and X (@RCMPAlberta).

Alberta RCMP encourages the public to report any suspicious activity to police. If you see a crime in progress, dial 911. If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.