This weekend, many Nova Scotians will be securing their seasonal homes and cottages for the winter. The Nova Scotia RCMP are reminding property owners to take a few extra steps before locking up.

Thieves tend to be attracted to portable items that they can carry and easily sell such as flat screen televisions and other electronics, alcohol and firearms. Other frequently stolen items include things kept outside or in a shed or barn, such as ATV’s, outboard motors and power tools.

Here are a few things you can do to help prevent your property from being a target:

• Remove all valuables from your cottage (including firearms);
• Lock / secure all doors and windows;
• Install an alarm system;
• Close all curtains and drapes;
• Ensure all out buildings (e.g., garage or shed) are secured;
• Don’t leave tools and items outside that could be used to break into your cottage;
• Consider using motion sensors or timers for outdoor lights;
• Photograph interior – make list of items and serial numbers;
• Install cameras in a location pointing towards the cottage or cabin;
• Avoid storing vehicles and their keys at a cottage or camp – this includes ATV’s and snowmobiles;
• Ask someone you trust to check on your property regularly.

“Criminals see unoccupied cottages as easy targets so the more difficult you make it for them to get in, the better,” says Nova Scotia RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Jennifer Clarke. “If you discover your property has been broken in to or notice something unusual, it’s important to report it to police as soon as possible.”

The Nova Scotia RCMP can be contacted anywhere in the province by calling 1-800-803-RCMP (7267), or should you wish to remain anonymous, tips can be sent to Crime Stoppers by calling toll-free 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submitting a secure web tip atwww.crimestoppers.ns.ca or use the P3 Tips App.

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Source : Media Release