The “don’ts” of crime prevention

Theft-proofing your home before you go on vacation may sound like common sense, but if you don’t consider the possibility of a break-in, it’s easy to forget the basics of security.

For example, one local woman recently came home from a trip to find a note on her door that read: “The homeowner is on vacation. Please bring the mail next door.” She never asked those neighbours to watch her home again!

Here are some other security ‘don’ts’:

Don’t put up a nameplate outside of your house with your full name.

A burglar can use this information to look up your number in the phone book and call to see if you are home.

Don’t leave a note on the door or in the mailbox telling a friend or family member that you aren’t home.

Don’t leave spare keys in an obvious place such as the mailbox or under the front door mat.

This makes it very easy for a burglar to rob your house quickly without forcing entry.

Don’t leave cash and handbags in view in your home.

Don’t leave any doors unlocked when you are at the other end of the house or in the yard.

Don’t post anything on Facebook that would tell thieves when you will be out of the house.

Contact the staff at our local office for more safety tips.