Unsolved Crimes LC

Now that Christmas is fast approaching, Crime Stoppers would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone to keep safe this holiday season. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Do not tell everyone that you are leaving on holidays, just a few close and trusted neighbours that can keep their eyes out for suspicious activity. Advertising that you are going to be gone lets would be criminals know that your home will be empty. You can get automatic timers for your lights to mimic the light schedule that you would normally have at home. Cancel your papers or have them picked up for you. Also have someone shovel your drive. Pick up your answering machine messages frequently so that thieves are not aware that the residence is empty.

When heading out for the evening, ensure that you have left some interior lights on, as well as the T.V. or a radio. Make sure that all of your doors and windows are securely locked. Keep your exterior well lit and visible to deter thieves.

If you have purchased gifts and are heading to work or out for the evening, ensure that you have hidden the gifts from view. Any high priced and attractive (to thieves) items should also be placed in a safe place, such as cameras, camcorders, jewelry, etc.

After Christmas, don’t advertise that you now have some expensive items in the home: flatten cardboard boxes with the printing to the inside, or take to the recycling depot yourself. Update your inventory for insurance purposes.

If you know about a crime, call Crime Stoppers’ anonymous tipsline at 1-800-222-8477. If your information leads to an arrest and charges, you may be eligible for a reward up to $2,000. For general inquiries about the program call 470-6215. Have a safe and happy holiday season!

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.