With the rising temperatures, the rates of theft on rural residencies and farms rise as well and the Alberta RCMP are reminding everyone to act with caution.

Corporal Ron Bumbry, RCMP Media Relations Officer, confirmed that, during the warmer months, theft becomes more prevalent.

"In summer months, we tend to see field thefts and break and enter incidents increase, especially during spring and the peak summer months. We're reminding people who own residences in rural areas, particularly farmers, and residences where there tend to be a lot of outer buildings, to lock up their sheds, install security cameras, install security lights with motion sensors, purchase a special locking fuel cap if you do have a tank on your property, and install a bolt lock on all your outer buildings."

Bumbry said that gas theft is also an issue during the spring and summer.

"With the warmer weather, criminals tend to travel from various different areas. What we have known in the past is that obviously they do travel in vehicles, so fuel that's left on properties unlocked or unsecured is an ideal target. They do need to get from point A to point B. Gas related thefts tend to go up in the summer months."

Anyone who might have experienced theft is to contact their local enforcement.

"They should definitely contact their local RCMP detachment or their local police. What we are doing as well is that we've put a bunch of crime prevention tips in a video series. It's called Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design. You can find those videos on how to secure your home on Youtube or on our Facebook RCMP Alberta page."

Bumbry reminded neighbours to be aware of each other and to look out for one another.

"Basically, people know various different cars. They know who should be in their neighbour's driveways. We're just asking the public to be aware of their neighbours, look out for one another specifically in rural areas. If they see something suspicious, take note of such details, such as a licence plate. "

 

Comments? Questions? Story ideas? Email us at news@discoverairdrie.com