(HURON COUNTY, ON) – Huron County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officers are asking homeowners to be vigilant about their home security in light of an increase in daylight break and enter crimes throughout Huron County and the region. Since August 19th there have been four daytime break and enter crimes where jewellery has been stolen in Huron County.
The most recent case took place in Saltford Heights yesterday afternoon. Sometime between 12:00 noon and 6:00 p.m. those responsible entered onto the property and made their way into the residence through an insecure patio door. Once inside the home the thieves targeted a jewellery box. The thieves stole several pieces of jewellery consisting of earring sets, watches, rings and bracelets. At this point the value of the stolen property has not been determined.
Are you taking steps to protect your property? Criminals will look for the easy opportunity whether it is in the middle of the day or under the cover of darkness. There are many simple and cost effective techniques that can help reduce these types of property crimes.
Here are some tips that are proven to work.
· Lock all doors and windows, even if you’re going out only for a short time.
· Keep garage doors locked at all times.
· Install quality locks and a deadbolt on each outside door. Patio doors can be further secured with a secondary device such as a wooden hockey stick or security bar.
· Trees, shrubs and fences can create hiding spots for criminals. Keep your landscaping groomed and limit privacy fencing.
· Ensure outside lights are always working. Motion sensor lighting can greatly enhance the security of your property.
· Are your valuables tucked away in a safe spot in your home? Keep the expensive jewellery and valuables out of sight.
· A working alarm system can prevent break & enter crimes.
In addition to the above target hardening and Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) tips residents are encouraged to watch over their neighbour’s property. Get to know your neighbours and be familiar with their routines. If you see a suspicious person or vehicle in your neighbourhood don’t hesitate to call police. Crime prevention is everyone’s business. We need your help to prevent crime in your neighbourhood.
Your local OPP Detachment can be reached by calling 1-888-310-1122, and in the case of a crime in progress and/or emergency please use 9-1-1. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.
For more information please explore Property Security at www.opp.ca. A Home Security Challenge Tip Sheet is also available.