Whether you're driving down to the Rockies or heading out of province, summer brings the perfect opportunity for families to pack up and hit the road. But while you’re away, your home could become a target.
In June 2024 alone, 367 residential break and enters were reported within Alberta RCMP jurisdiction, raising concerns about home safety during peak vacation season.
To help reduce the risk, the RCMP encourages residents to apply Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles — a proven method used by law enforcement and community planners to discourage crime.
“These are the same principles members of the RCMP are trained on,” said Chad Cronk, Acting Crime Prevention Liaison Supervisor. “We recommend homeowners consider these principles and apply them to their property regularly.”
CPTED Safety Tips
A few simple adjustments can help protect your home while you're away:
- Lighting: Keep your yard well lit. Install motion-sensor lights at all entry points.
- Sightlines: Maintain clear views to yards, garages, and doorways. Overgrown trees and shrubs can offer hiding spots for criminals.
- Gates: Lock your gates. Criminals often avoid obstacles that slow them down.
- Windows: Keep windows covered and locked when you're not home. An empty house is an easy target.
- Alarms: Install a security system, especially for seasonal properties or if you travel frequently. Alerts can be sent to authorities immediately.
- Locks: Always secure sheds, garages, and other outbuildings. Store valuables like bikes, barbecues and lawnmowers out of sight.
CPTED is an internationally recognized crime-prevention concept and has shown positive impacts in reducing property-related crimes and improving community safety.
For more information on CPTED and residential security tips, follow the RCMP online:
- Facebook – @RCMPinAlberta
- X (formerly Twitter) – @RCMPAlberta
- YouTube – @RCMP-GRC Alberta
