‘Digital watchdogs’ could curb summer theft, Crime Stoppers says

Crooks can be caught red-handed with some help from a digital watchdog.

Crime Stoppers of Metro Vancouver is asking homeowners to consider installing security cameras as a line of defence against theft, especially as the summer travel season gets underway.

Break-ins are down in some areas, but the organization warned criminals are still active – and increasingly targeting items left outside homes.

“Crooks don’t go on vacation,” said Linda Annis, executive director of Metro Vancouver Crime Stoppers.

In its annual summer safety and security reminder, the organization showcased what it called “digital watchdogs,” the latest in home surveillance cameras.

Newer systems are designed to trigger strobe lights when they sense an intruder.

“The strobe will go off, and it will let the person who’s on your property know they’ve been detected,” said Rob Irvine of First Choice Security Systems.

“Typically, at this point they’re running for the hills.”

Some devices allow two-way conversations with a trespasser and can even distinguish between a person and an animal.

Prices for home security cameras range from around $100 to several hundred dollars, depending on features.

Crime Stoppers is also reminding residents not to leave tools, bikes, packages or other valuable items outside. Ladders, or anything else that could help a would-be burglar gain access, should also be put away.

People are also being urged to look out for their neighbours, and report any suspicious activity to police or Crime Stoppers