The longer days of spring and summer can bring out a different criminal element, RCMP are warning.
According to a Nanaimo RCMP press release, residents throughout Nanaimo are reporting prowlers, thefts of bikes and garden tools and break-ins to vehicles.
“This is not uncommon and every community experiences this at this time of the year,” said reserve Const. Gary O’Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesperson, in the release. “The best we can do is target-harden our homes and property by being alert, reporting suspicious behaviour and incorporating solid crime prevention practices.“
Police have a few recommendations for homeowners and tenants to help them avoid becoming victims of property crime, starting with watching out for suspicious behaviour, such as strangers peering into parked cars, wandering into carports, or looking into backyards or into windows. Suspicious activities should be reported immediately to Nanaimo RMCP detachment’s non-emergency line at 250-754-2345, though police note that officers may not be able to respond immediately if they are already dealing with high-priority calls.
Sensor lights and motion lights can be an effective in deterring potential intruders by making the home appear less vulnerable. Because they can be triggered by wind, pests, passing cars and motorists, finding the proper effective range setting and installation height is important when installing them.
All unattended vehicles need to be locked with windows rolled up and it’s imperative nothing of value is left inside and visible to anyone looking into the vehicle. Cellphones and chargers, wallets, gym bags, shoes and clothing rank among the items most reported stolen, so they should be kept in the trunk or taken out of the vehicle.
Thieves will take anything that is not locked up, so bikes should be locked or brought inside. Tools should be secured indoors or in a shed with a high-quality lock, and anything of value should be marked with an identifying number. Side gates should be locked to prevent easy access, and even an inexpensive lock can be deterrent enough for crooks to think twice about going any farther.
Neighbours are encouraged to work together to improve crime prevention by starting a neighbourhood Block Watch chapter as a another layer of protection against criminal activity. Anyone with questions about home security is encouraged to call the Nanaimo RCMP Community Policing Section at 250-734-5445.
