Police continue to conduct cottage property checks
The Manitoulin Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) continues to conduct property checks of seasonal residences by snowmobile and patrol vehicle in an effort to prevent property crime.
Property owners can do their part by making their cottages as theft resistant as possible. Remove valuable items, or lock them out of sight. These items may include electronics, and tools. Remove alcohol from seasonal residences. Do not leave boats, all-terrain vehicles (ATV) or other vehicles out in the open and unsecured. Lock them up in a garage and remove the key. If you must leave them outside, lock them to a tree or some other permanent structure. Drain the fuel tanks and take used fuel away. Do not leave gas cans as it may be used to steal your boat, or ATV. It also reduces the risk of a fire on your property. Use quality locks including dead bolts on doors and windows. A simple piece of wood will secure sliding doors and sliding windows. Cover window openings to prevent a view of the interior.
Tell neighbours that the seasonal home is vacant. Permanent residents living close by can be your eyes and ears when you are not there. If your area has Neighbourhood Watch, advise the block captain when you are leaving for the winter. For more information check the Crime Prevention Section on the OPP website at www.opp.ca.
Break and enters are crimes of opportunity. The OPP is asking the public to be vigilant and to report suspicious activity around these vacant properties. Take time to note the time of day, vehicle description including license plate, and a physical description and clothing of any individual observed. Timely reporting of this type of activity to your local OPP detachment will allow police to quickly determine if further investigation is required.
Securing property and reporting suspicious activity may reduce the opportunity for criminals. Anyone with information regarding break and enters or other crime should immediately contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or their nearest police authority.
Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit information online at www.tipsubmit.com where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.
