As fall begins and the days become shorter, Chatham-Kent Crime Stoppers is encouraging residents to take steps to protect their homes and vehicles.
The organization said fall maintenance is a good opportunity to address potential security concerns, such as ensuring window and door locks are working properly, trimming bushes and trees to avoid creating potential hiding places, and storing outdoor equipment in a locked garage or shed when possible. All security systems, cameras, alarms, smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors should also be tested.
“Crime prevention starts with the small things we do every day,” said Crime Stoppers Coordinator Erica McIntosh. “Taking a few minutes to look around your home, yard and vehicle can help reduce opportunities for theft and make our community safer.”
As daylight hours decrease, working motion-sensitive lights can also improve visibility around entrances and discourage unwanted activity.
Residents should remove any cash, gift cards, electronics, bags, tools and other valuables from their vehicles to avoid attracting the attention of potential thieves.
Crime Stoppers added that it’s important to keep your vehicle and home locked at all times.
For more crime prevention information or to submit an anonymous tip, click here.