General Travel Information

Is your home protected while you're away?

You packed the sunscreen and the camera, but did you remember to cancel the newspaper before you head out for sunnier climes?

The Alberta Motor Association is urging travellers to take steps to protect the home they leave behind. AMA warns that property theft is on the rise as thieves target unoccupied homes.

In 2003 in Edmonton, property crimes reached a 5-year high, accounting for 55 percent of all criminal offences, according to Edmonton Police Service. Edmonton recorded 51,677 property crimes during the year. In Calgary, property crimes accounted for 70 percent of all reported crimes with 55,777 property crimes in 2003.

Property theft can be devastating, personally as well as financially. Many homeowners experience insecurity and fear following the violation of a break-in. In addition, victims must cope with the loss of valuable property or cherished heirlooms.

An emerging trend in property theft, however, is the increase in identity theft. Thieves who break into a home may have access to the homeowner's financial information such as bank records, credit cards, etc. This can lead to identity theft and fraud.

"An unoccupied home can be a tempting opportunity for a thief. Don't lay out the welcome mat for thieves. The last thing you want is to come home from your vacation to a nightmare," says Don Szarko of AMA's Advocacy and Community Services.

The organizaton works with the following partners on initiatives to reduce theft in our communities: police and government; the Alberta Community Crime Prevention Association (ACCPA); Neighbourhood Watch and Block Watch; Crime Stoppers; Fraud Stoppers; and the Crime Free Multi-Housing Program.

AMA offers the following tips to help you avoid becoming a victim of crime:
• Arrange to stop mail delivery or have it picked up, and cancel the newspaper.
• Have a neighbour check both inside and outside the house every few days.
• Have a friend or service take care of your yard.
• Set timers on a few lights and a radio.
• Garages are a favourite target for burglars, be sure windows are curtained and locked.
• Place a wood or metal stick between the frame and door of sliding doors and windows.
• Do NOT leave a key hidden outside.
• Secure all exterior doors with deadbolt locks.
• Check your insurance policy for vacation home-care requirements.
• Disconnect your automatic garage door opener and install a lock in the overhead door track to block the roller.

For more detailed tips refer to www.ama.ab.ca/go/stopthief.