The Alberta RCMP is urging homeowners to consider Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) as the weather gets warmer.
CPTED is a design principle when planning a home renovation or seasonal maintenance project that aims to reduce crimes of opportunity.
Homeowners making recommended adjustments to a home or business can deter criminals by making it difficult, or less desirable to commit the crime, an Alberta RCMP media release said.
“Citizens play a critical role in keeping their communities safe,” C/Supt. Peter Tewfik, Alberta RCMP Officer in Charge of Community Safety and Well-being said. “By using the principles of CPTED and making simple changes to your property, you can help reduce property crime in Alberta.”
The RCMP is recommending that homeowners trim trees and shrubs, as trimming trees allows for a clear sightline from inside the home to the curb or edge of the property, and keeping shrubs short removes potential hiding places.
Homeowners should consider installing motion sensor lighting around their property, and ensure their home is lit at night to deter criminals.
“Solar-powered lights are a great option to light up the most remote places on your property. Also leaving lights on in the house when away can provide the illusion that someone is home,” the release said.
Installing exterior cameras and ensuring outdoor valuables are properly secured in a shed or garage and are out of sight can also deter criminals.
The RCMP encourages the public to report any criminal or suspicious activity to the police.
If you see a crime in progress, dial 911, or to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.
