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By Abby Zieverink
RCMP TIPS

Grande Prairie RCMP offer up tips for winterizing seasonal properties

Oct 10, 2021 | 8:00 AM

With the Fall season here in the Peace Region, Grande Prairie RCMP say securing seasonal properties may be the next item on people’s checklist in preparation for the winter season.

Sgt. Shawn Graham says being proactive is the best way to prevent loss, theft or damage over the winter months.

“Clean up if there’s any clutter, to not give that opportunity for people to come in and want to break into the property.”

Graham suggests the biggest thing in preparing a property to deter criminal activity is locking up valuables, putting them out of sight of unwanted visitors.

“Taking things that are out on the property and locking them up… like things that can be used to break into the residence or other buildings, you want to make sure those are put away.”

As many seasonal property owners are not able to go to their property over the winter months, Graham suggests security systems will help prevent criminal activity while you are away.

“Motion detecting lights, security cameras, maybe audible alarms around the property, they can be strong deterrence for crime and unwanted intruders.”

Before leaving seasonal properties for the winter, Graham says a few safety tips include turning the water heater to the vacation setting to limit unexpected failures that could spark a fire.

“If natural gas is used in the property, turning off the supply while you’re away will limit the possibility of a leak,” he said.

“(Make sure) the heat is turned off, remember to turn off the water supply to avoid frozen pipes, (and) remember to check all smoke detectors and putting fresh batteries,” he adds.

Graham suggests taking these steps will help keep your property safe over the winter.

“Sometimes criminals are extremely determined, and they’ll do whatever they can to break into places,” he said.

“But it never hurts to try some of these things to help deter some of that criminal activity.”

by Abby Zieverink