How to protect your cottage from thieves this winter: OPP

Ahead of winter, Ontario Provincial Police are urging seasonal property owners to take precautions to prevent property crime.

As camps, cottages and seasonal properties sit vacant over the winter months, Ontario Provincial Police say they can become attractive targets for property crime.

OPP Const. Kyler Brouwer said in a recent social media video that winter is fast approaching and people are looking to close up their camps, cottages and seasonal properties.

“Thieves aren’t generally looking for the toughest properties to break into. They’re looking for the easy ones,” said OPP Det. Const. Neal Turner.

Precautions urged before leaving

Police said taking a few simple precautions before leaving can help reduce the risk of property crime and protect owners.

“Most thieves are looking for an easy opportunity. A little preparation before winter arrives can make your property a much less attractive target,” OPP wrote in a recent social media post.

Provincial police recommend seasonal property owners:

• secure all doors, windows, sheds and outbuildings before leaving.
• record serial numbers and keep a current inventory of electronics, tools, recreational equipment and other valuables, including photos.
• make the property look occupied by arranging for someone trusted to check it regularly, collect mail, clear snow and watch for suspicious activity.
• keep tools, generators, ATVs, fuel, cash and important documents out of plain view and locked away.
• be careful about what is posted publicly on social media, including vacation plans and real-time travel updates, and wait until returning home before sharing trip photos.

Cameras, alarms can deter thieves

OPP added that installing or maintaining exterior lighting, sensor lights, remote access cameras and alarm systems can be effective deterrence and may help investigators if a crime does occur.