RCMP – Home Security Tips

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

Chestermere, Alta. – With the arrival of fall, daylight hours are decreasing, and the Chestermere RCMP are reminding homeowners that criminals often take advantage of the longer hours of darkness. Taking a few simple steps now can help reduce the risk of becoming a victim of property crime.

The Chestermere RCMP encourage residents to consider Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles when evaluating their homes and properties:

• Ensure your address number is clearly visible for emergency responders.
• Trim overgrown trees and bushes to increase sight lines and eliminate potential hiding places.
• Keep shrubs below window level to prevent them from becoming cover for intruders.
• Maintain clear, visible pathways to doors and access points.

• Install LED or motion-sensor lighting around doors, driveways, and dark corners of your property.
• Install security cameras near home entry points, as well as near outbuildings and garages.
• Use solar-powered lights for sheds, backyards, and areas without wiring access.
• Ensure lights are placed high enough to prevent tampering.

• Lock up tools, ladders, and lawn equipment in a garage or shed.
• Avoid leaving expensive items in plain sight from the street.
• Use high-quality padlocks and deadbolts on exterior structures.
• Use fencing and natural barriers (like thorny plants) to define property boundaries.
• Ensure your address is clearly visible from the street for emergency responders.
• Avoid tall privacy fences or solid walls that can block visibility and hide intruders.
• Join or start a community watch to keep neighbours informed and engaged.

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 information on home safety visit us on Facebook @RCMPinAlberta and on X @RCMPAlberta.