Got May long weekend plans?
Coquitlam RCMP are hoping those that do have gone the extra mile to make sure their homes, businesses and other personal property are locked up.
Mounties believe local residents taking advantage of the warmer spring weather and leaving their homes to travel may tempt potential thieves to roam neighbourhoods looking for the chance to cash in.
Property crimes bumped up by 4.3 per cent in Coquitlam last year, according to RCMP detachment's 2022 year in review.
Insp. Darren Carr said this included theft from vehicles, shoplifting and mischief to property in a presentation to city council on March 6.
"Crime prevention is all of our responsibility," added spokesperson Cpl. Alexa Hodgins in a statement on Thursday (May 18), noting a large percentage of property crime is opportunistic.
"By planning ahead and taking a few extra precautions, people can lessen the chances of opportunistic crimes to unoccupied property."
Hodgins said it's important to double-check the security of homes and businesses.
Theft prevention tips listed by Coquitlam RCMP to lessen possible break-ins are as follows:
- Temporarily stop regular deliveries
- Ensure all security systems are working and activate it before leaving
- Arrange for someone to stop by your property periodically
- Use automatic timers for indoor and outdoor lights
- Refrain from posting vacation plans or photos on social media until after you've returned
What to do?
RCMP encourage the public to report theft of any personal property, big or small, as well as suspected break-ins to homes, businesses, garages or sheds.
The non-emergency line is 604-945-1550.
Those who witness a break-and-enter or theft in progress are strongly urged to stay back and call 911 right away.
For more information, and other tips to ensure property is locked, you can visit the BC RCMP's home security tips page.
