The OPP is reminding residents to be mindful when placing their holiday litter at the curb.
“Thieves can quickly ascertain what you received on your Christmas wish list by simply driving by and looking at the gift boxes put out to the curb for garbage pickup,” police said in a press release.
“Criminals can easily gauge which house would make a great target based on the advertisement left out for them each year.”
Police remind residents to take the following steps to help protect themselves from prospective criminals:
– take boxes from large ticket items directly to a recycling depot when possible;
– shred any and all receipts and financial documents meant for the garbage;
– if you need to place boxes at the curbside, break down and cut down boxes to a smaller size and turn inside out; and
– arrange to have a trusted person gather your garbage cans if you will be away.
In addition, police are passing along the following post-holiday suggestions to help keep residents safe:
– ensure mail is gathered as soon as possible (delay delivery or have a trusted person retrieve the mail)’
– avoid posting your new gifts on social media;
– make your home looked lived in while away; and
– always keep vehicles and homes locked.
“Thieves often look for the easiest target with the biggest, quickest return and by following these tips you can help prevent becoming a victim of property crime this holiday season,” police say.
For more information on the OPP Lock It or Lose It or Safeguard programs, visit the OPP website at www.opp.ca and click on the “Resources” tab.
