Home Security
It’s important to review your home security frequently to ensure your property is a less appealing target for thieves. A large percentage of property crime is opportunistic in nature. Thieves seek out the easiest target for break-ins such as open doors and windows, garage door openers, and unoccupied residences.
Doors and Windows
Keeping doors and windows secured and locked even when you are at home, or in the garage or yard is a simple and effective way to protect your property. It’s also important to take note of the hardware, materials, and locks around your home.
- Exterior doors should be solid core hardwood or metal covered.
- Install deadbolts on all exterior doors.
- Ensure glass doors and windows are shatter resistant.
- Fit basement and ground floor windows with security bars, pins or latches.
- Don’t open the door before checking through a peep hole or security camera.
Garages
Thieves target garages and sheds to steal bicycles, tools, and other valuables. They often gain entry through unlocked garage doors, or by stealing a garage door opener from a vehicle parked nearby.
- Ensure your garage door closes tightly and keep it locked at all times.
- Do not leave your garage door opener inside your vehicle.
- Choose a garage door opener with a rolling code system.
- Install a deadbolt on the door from the garage into the house.
- Record serial numbers of tools and valuables.
Vacation Plans
Unoccupied residences are a favourite target for thieves. By taking a few simple precautions you can lessen the chances of returning from vacation to find your home has been ransacked.
- Stop regular deliveries like newspapers.
- Have a neighbour collect your mail and check on your property.
- Set your indoor lights to turn on and off automatically with timers.
- Keep vacation plans and photos off of social networks until after you’ve returned home.
Alarms and Lighting
A home alarm system and well-placed motion detector lighting around your property can be an effective way to deter thieves.
- Research home alarm systems to determine the best options for your family.
- If you have a home alarm system be sure to activate it before you leave home.
- Install motion sensor lighting around your property including outside your garage.
- Ensure your street address is well lit and visible from the road to allow emergency responders to find your property quickly in an emergency.
Report
If your home, garage or shed was broken into in Surrey, call the Surrey RCMP non-emergency to report it at 604-599-0502. If you witness a break-in or theft in progress, or if you believe the suspect is still inside or near your property, stay back and call 9-1-1.
Stay informed
- Know your neighbours and look out for each other by joining the Block Watch Program.
- Sign up for our Crime Stats enewsletter to receive monthly crime maps of break and enters in your area as well as quarterly crime statistics.
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