RCMP – Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design

On behalf of our partners at the RCMP, we are sharing the following.

Chestermere, Alta. – As spring arrives and homeowners begin planning yard work, landscaping and outdoor renovations, the Chestermere RCMP is encouraging residents to consider how vegetation and yard design can improve home safety and help deter crime.

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) focuses on reducing opportunities for crime through thoughtful property design, maintenance, and visibility. Trees, shrubs, fencing, and landscaping features can all play a role in increasing natural surveillance and reducing concealment opportunities around homes.

Whether planting a new yard or updating existing landscaping, residents are encouraged to consider the following safety tips:

• Maintain clear sightlines to doors, windows, walkways, and driveways.
• Avoid planting large shrubs or dense vegetation directly beneath windows or near entry points where someone could hide from view.
• Trim and maintain trees and shrubs regularly to reduce concealment areas around the home.
• Keep shrubs and bushes below window level whenever possible to improve visibility from inside the residence.
• Prune tree branches that block views of the property or create hidden areas near fences, pathways, or entrances.
• Consider planting thorny or dense vegetation beneath vulnerable ground-level windows as a natural deterrent.
• Use low shrubs, decorative fencing, pathways, or landscaping features to clearly define private property boundaries and guide visitors toward intended entrances.
• Ensure walkways, entrances, and yards remain well lit and free of overgrown vegetation.
• Remove dead trees, abandoned planters, or neglected landscaping that may signal a property is unoccupied.
• Regularly inspect your property from the perspective of someone approaching your home. Ask yourself: Are there areas where someone could remain concealed? Can neighbours or passing traffic easily see the front of the home? Are entrances visible and unobstructed?

The Chestermere RCMP reminds residents that if you witness a crime in progress or see suspicious activity, call 9-1-1 immediately. For non-emergencies, you can:

• Call 310-RCMP (7267)
• To report online, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play. Alternatively, visit rcmp-grc.gc.ca/ab and select Online Crime Reporting under quick links.

For more safety tips, visit us on Facebook @RCMPinAlberta and on X @RCMPAlberta.