TPS Community Alert: March Break Safety

33 Division Toronto Police Service wants to remind all of our community members to be extra careful next week as it is "March Break" for many students and families accross the GTA.

Many people will be leaving there homes and vehicles for an extended period of time, making them a easier target for criminals to break into. We ask that you be extra diligent in your Crime Prevention efforts to safeguard your homes.

Here are some suggestions that may help keep your home from becoming a target

1. Lock all windows and doors. This may sound silly but thieves are still accessing and stealing from homes that are left wide open.

2. Don't hide a spare key where the thieves can easily find it. Its preferred if you give the key to a trusted friend or neighbor. Have that same person check on the premise several times while your away, coming and going at different times.

3. Have lights on timers or have someone go in and turn different lights on at different times of the day and night.

4. Have garbage, mail and flyers picked up regularily, so as not to collect at the doorway indicating your absence.

5. leave some of your blinds and curtains open. As closing them all may indicate that you have gone away for an extended period of time.

6. Leave at least one vehicle parked in the driveway to give the illusion that someone may be home.

Remember to "Harden the Target" make your home difficult for a criminal to gain entry.

Remember to report any suspicious behaviour to Police.

This message was brought to you by the 33 Division Crime Prevention Officer.