Protecting Yourself and Your Property

• Avoid leaving a running vehicle unattended.
• Ensure you always lock car doors and roll up your windows.
• Consider using anti-theft devices (steering wheel lock, an automatic engine shut-off, and/or a tracking device).
• Remember to lock your garage door.
• Avoid storing valuables or packages in open sight in your vehicles (place them out of sight or in the trunk).

• Large, anonymous parking lots like those associated with shopping malls, movie theatres, airports, train or bus stations
• automotive dealerships
• residential driveways
• unlocked garages

Report it to the police immediately at 905-546-4925. Have the following vehicle information ready:

• Make, model, year and colour of the vehicle
• Plate number, Vehicle Identification Number and insurance company and policy number
• List of contents stolen from the vehicle
• List of any identifying features such as dents, scratches or markings

• Ensure that shrubs and hedges around your property are maintained to have clear lines of sight to all accessible windows and doors.
• Keep garage and screen doors locked, even while at home.
• Get to know your neighbours and join forces by looking out for each other's properties.
• Consider installing a second locking device for your windows and any sliding doors.

• Make sure to cancel newspapers.
• Do not advertise your travel plans on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.
• Consider asking a friend or trusted neighbour to care for your house while you are away.

The Hamilton Police Auxiliary Branch provides free home security audits. These audits:

• Educate homeowners against potential Break and Enters
• Provide recommendations which may protect owners against vandalism

To book an audit, contact 905-546-4900 or email [email protected]

• Install a door viewer and never open the door to strangers – speak through the door
• If someone asks to come in for help, keep the door closed and call the police for them
• Draw all window drapes/shades at night
• If you live alone, don’t reveal this your answering machine

• The use of drugs or alcohol can affect your better judgement
• Bring enough money to pay for your own ride home
• Always trust your instincts – if something doesn’t feel right, get to a safe place

• Walk with another person. If you can’t, notify someone of your route and arrival time
• Choose the sidewalk across from potential hiding spots such as doorways, alleys, shrubs
• If a threatening vehicle approaches you, turn and walk in the opposite direction
• If you think you’re being followed, go to the nearest well-lit public area and seek assistance
• If you are in danger, make noise – yell, scream, or do whatever it takes to attract attention
• Carry a whistle
• Avoid using bank machines after hours, carrying large amounts of money, or counting money in public
• Conceal small electronics when possible

• Have your keys out and ready before you get to your vehicle, especially if parked underground
• Check the outside and interior of your car for someone hiding inside
• Lock your vehicle once inside and again when you leave it
• Park in well-lit areas with pedestrian traffic
• Never pick up hitchhikers

• When using public transportation, sit near the driver and know the schedules and routes
• When staying in hotels, use a door stop for your room
• When travelling, always keep your luggage and bags with you
• Use a security pouch under your clothing