Ontario Provincial Police remind residents to be mindful this holiday season when placing their holiday litter to the curb.
Thieves can ascertain a Christmas wish list by looking at gift boxes on the curb for garbage pickup, gauging which residence would make a great target based on the advertisement left out for them, OPP said in a media release.
Residents are reminded to take steps to protect themselves from prospective criminals:
- Take boxes from large ticket items directly to a recycling depot.
- Shred all receipts and financial documents meant for the garbage.
- Break down and cut down boxes to a smaller size and turn inside out.
- Arrange to have a trusted person gather your garbage cans if you will be away.
Post-holiday suggestions to help keep residents safe:
- Ensure your mail is gathered as soon as possible. If you have home mail delivery and will be away, delay your delivery or have a trusted person retrieve your mail.
- Avoid posting new gifts on social media.
- Make your home looked lived in while away.
- Always keep your vehicles and homes locked or you may lose what is inside.
Thieves often look for the easiest target with the biggest, quickest return and by following these tips you can help prevent becoming a victim of property crime this holiday season.
