Strathcona County, Alta – As many businesses are closed or have a reduced number of staff, customers and pedestrians present it means that there are fewer “eyes on the street” to notice and report suspicious activity to police. Right now, we all need to work together to keep each other, and our businesses safe and secure. As always, we will continue proactive patrols throughout business and residential areas to ensure the safety and security of our community.
Some crime prevention tips for those business that are currently closed during this time:
• In addition to exterior lights, keep the lights on inside so that when the RCMP are doing their patrols at night, they can see inside your business. Also, remove anything, like posters, retail display racks and similar, from the windows as to not obstruct the view into your business.
• Remove all cash and receipts. Don’t leave donation boxes on the front desk, cash boxes with “floats”, or safes at your business. Empty out cash registers and leave them open or put the empty cash try out to show there is nothing in it.
• Remove client or staff personal information that could be stolen and used for identity theft.
• Don’t leave any valuables visible or accessible. Remove computers, projectors, and other valuables from your office and take them home.
• Consider posting an “All Valuables & Cash Removed” sign on your door.
• Remove material around the exterior of the property, such as wood pallets, bricks, ladders, or metal poles, that may be used to gain entry.
• Ensure the emergency contact list is up to date on any alarm monitoring system.
• Make regular site visits to monitor your shop/business. Consider not doing this on a regular schedule so observers cannot figure out an established pattern.
• If neighbouring businesses are deemed essential and have remained open, request that they be vigilant to the traffic and activity around your business.
If your business is still open some crime prevention tips include:
• Keep the interior, front and rear entrances well lighted
• Keep advertising and merchandise out of windows as much as possible
• Always keep the rear and side doors locked
• Be sure your alarms are in good working order at all times
• Do not open your place of business before or after regular business hours
Strathcona County RCMP would like to remind residents that effective and efficient policing can only be achieved through collaborative effort and partnership. If anyone observes suspicious activity or individuals, please call the Strathcona County RCMP at 780-467-7741.