Staff reporter
With the seasons changing from summer to autumn, many cabin and recreational property owners have, or are in the process of closing up things for another year, the RCMP reminds the public that property left in backyards, carports, driveways or cabins are prime targets for thieves.
“Items such as boat motors, boats and trailers, dirt bikes, motorbikes, mountain bikes and ATVs should be stored and secured properly,” said Sgt. Mark Groves, who also offered a number of tips to ensure property remains safe.
Among them are ensuring property is not stored on top of trailers, cleaning out garages to provide adequate storage space for larger items and installing adequate trailer locks.
In the case of recreational properties, Groves recommends making sure the cabin and any related buildings are securely locked, including windows, and that all items of value have been removed.
“Another good idea is to check your property periodically or make arrangements to have a friend check it for you,” Groves said. “Also, make a copy of your serial numbers and keep them in a safe place. It’s also a good idea to take photographs of your valuables and store them safely as well.”
Playing off the old adage, ‘out of sight, out of mind’, Groves said property crime is most often a crime of opportunity and anything that can be done to help reduce or eliminate the opportunities will ultimately help reduce crime overall.