FORT McMURRAY — As residents tackle spring yard work and home improvement projects, Wood Buffalo RCMP are encouraging homeowners to take simple steps to reduce opportunities for crime around their properties.
Police are promoting Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design, or CPTED, an approach that uses landscaping, lighting and property maintenance to improve safety and deter criminal activity.
RCMP say spring is an ideal time for homeowners to assess their properties and identify ways to improve visibility, access control and overall security.
Recommended measures include trimming overgrown trees and shrubs, maintaining clear sightlines to doors and windows, and ensuring pathways and entrances remain visible.
Police also encourage residents to install motion-activated or LED lighting around homes, driveways and other dark areas where criminal activity may be more likely to occur.
Homeowners are being reminded to secure tools, ladders and lawn equipment when not in use and avoid leaving valuables visible from the street.
Other suggestions include using quality locks on sheds and garages, clearly displaying civic addresses for emergency responders and using fencing or landscaping features to define property boundaries without creating hidden areas.
Inspector Troy Switzer, acting officer in charge of Wood Buffalo RCMP, said many property crimes can be prevented through relatively simple measures.
“Small actions can significantly reduce the chance of becoming a victim of crime,” Switzer said.
“Locking vehicles and exterior doors, keeping valuables out of sight, and maintaining good lighting around homes are effective ways to deter theft.”
Switzer said community awareness also plays an important role in crime prevention.
“Residents are encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings and promptly report suspicious activity. Community safety is a shared responsibility, and these preventive steps help support a safer environment for everyone.”
RCMP are also encouraging residents to participate in neighbourhood watch programs and report suspicious or criminal activity to police.
Anyone witnessing a crime in progress is asked to call 911. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers.
Police say incorporating crime prevention measures into routine spring maintenance can help create safer neighbourhoods across Fort McMurray and the wider Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo.
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