By: Michael Bennett, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Ridgetown Independent News
Chatham-Kent Crime Stoppers issued a reminder to residents planning extended-stay vacations during the winter months to take proactive steps to protect their homes and personal safety.
The advisory is an example of CK Crime Stoppers’ new Community Update, which shares education and prevention messaging with residents.
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,” said Erica McIntosh, Crime Stoppers Program Coordinator. “We want to help people ensure their vacations go smoothly and are able to enjoy themselves.”
Residents are encouraged to make their properties appear occupied before they leave on their vacations. 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.
Inside your home, valuables should be kept out of sight, doors and windows should be locked and secured, and alarm systems should be activated if available.
CK Crime Stoppers also recommends that homeowners document valuables by recording serial numbers and taking photographs, information that 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,” McIntosh said. “When your home looks like it is occupied, it drastically reduces the chances it will be targeted.”
When travelling internationally, CK Crime Stoppers say that personal safety and situational awareness are equally important.
Travellers 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. A trusted contact at home should also be provided with travel details.
CK Crime Stoppers advises travellers 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.
Travellers should be cautious when using public Wi-Fi networks or sharing personal information, and are also encouraged to use hotel safes for passports and extra cash to help reduce the risk of loss or theft.
Another consideration is financial security.
Travellers are encouraged to inform financial institutions of travel plans to help prevent cards from being flagged for suspicious activity, and to 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.
When residents return home, they are encouraged to inspect their property for any signs of damage or suspicious activity and to report concerns promptly, as prompt reporting can help police respond effectively.
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,” CK Crime Stoppers say.
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.
