You are the extra eyes and ears out in the neighbourhoods. You see what is going on in your own backyards. We need to hear from you if you see incidents occurring that could escalate into something bigger and “out of control”. The non-emergency line should be used for such incidents. Please call 604-985-1311. This will allow the police to be aware of what is occurring in your area and patrol when available. If you witness a crime occurring or an emergency situation, call 911 immediately.

Summer safety reminders:

• Break and Enters are higher in the summer months because people leave their doors and windows open. Please remember you still need to keep your front and side doors and windows locked when you are outdoors in your back yard and no one is in the house. People tend to leave second story windows open but this is still an invitation to intruders. Put ladders away to prevent easy access to these windows.
• Lock garden sheds where you store all the tools an intruder needs to break into your home.

Going away tips:

• Have a trusted person pick up your mail and newspaper daily. – Allow a neighbour to park their car in your driveway while you’re away.
• Use light timers inside to make your house look lived in.
• Have motion sensor lights outside.
• Leave a general message on your phone; don’t leave a message that lets people know you’re away.
• Cancel scheduled deliveries while you are away (newspaper, milk, organic produce, etc.)
• On garbage day, have a neighbour put a garbage can by your curb.
• Make sure your alarm system is in working order and that there is someone who knows your alarm code and can attend if there is an alarm.
• Inform a trusted neighbour of the dates you will be away and leave them a number
  where you can be reached in case of emergency. Leaving a key with a trusted neighbour, relative or friend might be an option. Make certain that whoever has access to your home will know what to do in case of an emergency.
• If you’re thinking of taking an extended vacation or plan to leave your home unattended for several weeks, consider a house-sitter. A house-sitter is a person who lives in and cares for a house while the regular occupant is away.
• Check with your home insurance provider if leaving your home vacant for an extended period of time. Some policies require the home to be inspected at certain time intervals to ensure the home is secure.

Please remember that home security begins with you. The Block Watch Office wishes you a safe and fun-filled summer season!