This is Cst. Derek Hood of the Halifax Regional Police, Community Response Officer for the Bedford/Rockingham area.

Since this is the time of year that many people like to travel to warmer places, I would like to take a minute and provide you with a few crime prevention tips.

Prior to travelling, you should inform a relative or close friend, who lives nearby, and make arrangements for them to keep an eye on your home while you are away. They should remove any flyers or papers that are left in your doorway and snow should be removed from the driveway and walkways as these can act as a sign that nobody is home.

Please refrain from posting on social networks your plans to be away on vacation as this information can easily spread into the wrong hands. You should also make sure that your children refrain from this as well. Wait until you are home from your vacation to inform your friends and family of your trip.

It is also a good idea to keep a light on in your home when you are away, whether by timer or not, as this makes it look like someone is home. A home in darkness can be an easier target for somebody wanting to break in.

These are just a few tips to consider.

Have a safe and happy vacation!

Source: http://www.bedfordbeacon.com/message-from-cst-hood-on-vacation-safety