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Police issue advisory after rash of break-ins, thefts from vehicles

NEWS RELEASE ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE ************************* Members of the Temiskaming Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have responded to several incidents during the previous week involving mischiefs, break-ins, thefts from veh

NEWS RELEASE

ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE

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Members of the Temiskaming Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have responded to several incidents during the previous week involving mischiefs, break-ins, thefts from vehicles and more.

Police would like to remind the public that your first line of defense is to secure your property. 

Please remember to:

  • Use high quality locks and hardware on residential property.  Exterior doors should have deadbolt locks that require a key from the outside.  Install a peep hole if your door doesn’t have glass in it. 

  • Make sure all windows lock properly.  This includes residential and garage.

  • If you have an air conditioner installed in the window, securely fasten it to the window so it cannot be easily removed.

  • You should put curtains or blinds in your garage windows so your valuable items are not in view.  Keep the garage doors closed and locked at all times even when you are at home.

  • Make it difficult for someone to conceal themselves while breaking in.  Avoid tall/thick shrubs around your windows and doors.

  • Turn lamps or lights on randomly/remotely using an appliance timer and install motion-sensor lights near your residence and garage to keep it well lit at night. 

  • Avoid having stuff in plain sight that says "We have lots of $$$."

  • Don’t leave a message on your answering service that says you’re away and do NOT post on social media any information that will inform culprits that your property is vacant.    

  • A professional can steal your vehicle in 30 seconds.  A vehicle with an unlocked door or an open window is an easy target. 

  • Never leave your vehicle unattended while it is running. 

  • Do not leave any packages or valuables in your vehicle.  If you have to leave them in the vehicle, put them in the trunk prior to parking at your final destination. 

  • Pocket your keys and do not hide spare’s. 

Inform your local police department if you see persons, vehicles or vehicle-related activities that look suspicious. 

If someone breaks into your property, do not enter or touch anything. 

Call the police and safely watch your property until they arrive. 

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