The Upper Ottawa Valley OPP is providing residents with some crime prevention tips while you’re away on vacation this summer. Local police say it’s important to take a few moments to safeguard your residence and property before you go. Some safety tips include arranging for someone to maintain your home so it appears occupied, including cutting the grass (especially in Arnprior), picking up mail, flyers, newspapers and placing garbage and recycling containers at the curb for normal pick up. Other tips include making sure that smoke detectors and home alarms systems are functioning properly and consider putting valuables to a safety deposit. Officers in the Ottawa Valley want your summer vacation to be enjoyable and relaxing. Following the safety tips provided will allow travellers to return home to a safe and secure residence.
SUMMER VACATION AND CRIME PREVENTION TIPS FROM THE UPPER OTTAWA VALLEY OPP
- Do not announce your trip/vacation plans on social media. Advertising your absence could be an invitation to would-be thieves.
- Arrange for someone to maintain your home so it appears occupied – this includes cutting the grass, picking up mail, flyers and newspapers and placing garbage and recycling containers at the curb for normal pickup.
- Ask trusted neighbours to keep an eye on your residence while you are away and leave your vacation address and phone numbers with them so you can be reached in an emergency.
- Use timers for lights, television or radios.
- Make sure all the locks on the windows and doors function properly and use them.
- Leave the shades and blinds on doors and windows in a position that you normally would have them.
- Ask a neighbour to park in your driveway so it will appear as if someone is home
