The RCMP is taking a program designed to help residents tackle property crime digital during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Project Lock-Up uses several strategies to assist people and businesses who have found their property is being repeatedly victimized by property crime. These strategies include enhanced police presence in the area, markers to let the RCMP know that criminals could look to break-in there, and on-site visits to identify issues that criminals could exploit.
Community Engagement and Outreach Specialist Jennifer Kee, who oversees the program, says the program has moved online in order to the RCMP’s various social media channels.
“We’re really hoping we’re able to keep the conversation alive with the community. We want to be able to have this resource available to them. We’ve all had to make adjustments that are not ideal. This is just providing a solution.”
Residents are encouraged to follow the RCMP on Twitter (@RCMPAlberta), Facebook (@RCMPinAlberta) and YouTube (@RCMP-GRC Alberta) and the hashtag #HereToHelp in order to get these tips.
They can also reach out on these channels through direct messages and get tailor-made tips to protect their property, ranging from lighting changes to hedge trimming.
Kee explains that by following these steps, people can help discourage criminals thinking their property is an easy target.
“A criminal driving by, seeing that the property is fenced and it’s going to be a lot of work to get in there, they’re more likely to drive and try find a property that’s more accessible. An area that’s lit up: They want to be anonymous, they don’t want to be seen, they don’t want to take that risk of somebody seeing them.”
Residents are also reminded that the RCMP is on call to deal with any concern they may have, and people can report crimes to their local detachment or CrimeStoppers.