By Marcia Love
Maple Creek RCMP are taking action against the increase in vandalism and break ins. Starting later this fall, the RCMP will be patrolling the business district on foot.
Const. Chad Salmi is beginning an assessment of the businesses in town to offer advice on security procedures owners can take to reduce the risk of vandalism and break and enters.
“I’m going to be going to businesses with a check list of security measures to see what ones business owners have in place,” Salmi explained.
Sicne the number of burglaries has risen over the past few years, RCMP would like to ensure business owners have proper security in place.
Salmi said the best protection against burglary is visibility, as it discourages culprits from entering the premises.
“Outdoor lighting and indoor lighting are important,” he said. “If there’s a light on inside a store it gives us a better chance of seeing if there’s someone in there as opposed to just darkness.”
Video surveillance also plays an important role in prevention.
“That’s a big part of reducing vandalism, because the criminals will see the camera and be deterred from entering,” Salmi said.
When closing an establishment for the evening, owners are reminded to empty cash drawers and leave the drawer open so passersby will see the cash register is empty. Deadbolts with a minimum one-inch bolt are also recommended.
Nightly foot patrols of the downtown business area will begin in October and include the 100 block and part of the 200 block of Jasper Street, the 100 block of Maple Street and any other businesses in the area.
“It’s all about the presence and making sure people can see us out there,” Salmi explained.
Residents are reminded to report vandalism or other crimes to the RCMP at 662-5550.