Don’t let Grinches steal your property and sense of security over the holidays

It’s that time of year again when holiday preparations are under way. This year, Surrey RCMP is reminding you to include crime prevention and safety planning to your list of festive activities!

Many thefts are crimes of opportunity, with thieves taking advantage of unsecured or easily accessible property. The public can gift themselves peace of mind by reviewing and following Surrey RCMP’S holiday tips: • While holiday shoppers are looking for the perfect gifts, thieves are looking for the opportunity to steal. • Mall and shop parking lots are often targeted by property crime thieves. Remove all valuables from your vehicle, including garage door openers.

• Don’t stow purchases in your vehicle while you continue to shop. • Ensure you lock your vehicle and use an anti-theft device.

• Be aware of your surroundings, minimize distractions and put your phone away. • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash on you.

• Thieves target mail looking for cash, gift cards, and parcels – especially during the holiday season.

• Don’t leave mail in your mailbox. Collect your mail promptly after delivery. Unattended mail is a treasure trove of personal information for potential thieves.

• Avoid sending cash or gift cards in the mail. • Plan ahead. If you’ll be away, let Canada Post hold your mail until you return or have a neighbor collect your mail.

• When shopping online, avoid having packages delivered to your front door if you aren’t home during the day. Instead, have them shipped to your work or to a friend who is home to accept the delivery.

• Don’t just recycle. Shred documents that contain personal financial information, such as statements and credit card offers.

If you’re heading out of town for the holidays make arrangements to safeguard your home. • Ask a neighbor to collect your mail, flyers and newspapers. • Install timers in different areas of your house to turn lights on and off and different times.

• Keep a record of your valuables, including serial numbers.

• Wait to post your vacation pictures on social media until you return home.

• Ensure your garage is closed and shed is locked.

Remember, just like Santa Claus relies on his elves to spread Christmas cheer, we rely on the public to help keep Surrey safe. Please report property crime and suspicious activity. The Surrey RCMP can be reached at 604 599 0502 or by dialing 911 in an emergency.