WELLINGTON COUNTY – With the holiday season here, local police are urging residents to take precautions if they’re spending time away from home.
“While it’s important to relax and enjoy your time away, ensuring the safety of your home and belongings should be a priority,” states a Dec. 17 press release from the Wellington County OPP.
Police noted they “have seen an increase” in residential break-ins “while families are away.”
So the OPP is offering tips “on how to protect your home and property while you’re away.”
Make sure all doors and windows are securely locked, including those in your garage, basement and any other less visible entry points. If you have sliding doors, use a dowel or rod in the track to prevent them from being opened.
If you have a home security system, make sure it is activated before you leave. Additionally, security cameras (even doorbell cameras) can be a deterrent for burglars. If possible, set up motion sensors or cameras that notify you of any suspicious activity.
Install timers on indoor and outdoor lights to give the appearance that someone is home. Set them to turn on at different times throughout the evening to simulate a normal daily routine.
Ask a trusted neighbor, friend or family member to keep an eye on your property. Provide them with a key to your home in case of emergencies and ask them to pick up any mail or newspapers, as a pile of these items can be a signal that no one is home.
Store valuables such as jewelry, electronics and important documents in a secure location, such as a locked safe. Avoid leaving these items in plain sight, even if your home is well-secured. Jewelry and expensive items that are not used often can also be kept in a secure facility such as a bank safe.
While it can be tempting to share vacation photos on social media, doing so could alert potential burglars that your home is unoccupied. Hold off on posting pictures until after your return.
Overgrown shrubs and trees can provide hiding spots for burglars. Make sure to trim your bushes, trees, and hedges, especially around windows and doors. A well-maintained yard suggests the home is being cared for, which may deter criminals.
Many people overlook the garage as a potential entry point. Ensure that your garage door is closed and locked securely and if you use a remote, consider unplugging it or taking it with you. If you have an internal door from the garage into your house, make sure this door is locked as well.
Before you leave, turn off water valves, unplug appliances, and disconnect electronics. This can prevent potential flooding or fires while you’re away and will also save on energy bills.
Check that your home insurance policy is up to date and provides adequate coverage for potential theft or damage. Consider taking photos of valuable items and keeping a record of their serial numbers.
“By following these simple precautions, you can significantly reduce the chances of your home becoming a target while you’re away,” police stated.
“From everyone at Wellington County OPP, we wish you a safe and happy holiday.”
