York Regional Police is reminding residents there are steps you can take to prevent thieves from breaking into your home.
Investigators are seeing patterns in the type of break and enters that have been occurring, many of which were preventable. One of the common techniques thieves are currently using is gaining entry to homes through unlocked garage access doors. Thieves are either forcing their way into garages through windows or doors, or accessing homeowner’s remote garage door openers from their vehicles. They are finding that many homeowners are leaving their indoor garage-access doors unlocked, providing an easy entry point into the home.
York Regional Police is reminding our citizens of a few basic steps they can take to protect their property.
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Lock all doors that lead to your residence as well as your vehicle doors
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Do not announce your travel plans or absence from home on social media or your phone’s voicemail
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If going away on vacation or an extended absence, ask a trusted neighbor to watch your house and make your home looked lived-in by:
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using timer-controlled lights
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having mail and/or paper delivery temporarily stopped or delivered elsewhere
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having trusted people periodically attend for lawn cutting and garbage can placement, etc.
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arranging for neighbours to park in your driveway
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Do not discuss the contents of your home with others or leave boxes/packaging for expensive items on display in recycling bins
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Install dead-bolt locks on all exterior doors
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Consider installing a quality security system with motion sensors and/or video monitoring
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Secure all basement and ground-level windows and patio doors
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Trim all shrubs and trees so that doors and windows are in clear view
Be aware of suspicious people or vehicles in your neighbourhood and call police immediately if you’re concerned. We will respond to these calls.
For more tips and to conduct your own home security audit, visit yrp.ca.
(Source: York Regional Police) |