News Release - Winnipeg Police Service

Tuesday, May 12, 2015         Community Forum Opportunity Members of the West District Station would like to extend an invitation to members of the public and the media, particularly residents of River Heights to participate in a Community Forum on Wednesday, May 13, 2015 at 6:30 p.m. The forum will take place at the Corydon Community Centre located at 1370 Grosvenor Avenue.   We are committed to all citizens and wish to provide an opportunity for area residents to voice their concerns and share ideas regarding on-going concerns related to property crime in River Heights.   We want to hear from you. See you there!     *********************************************************************************************************   Project Comet: Police Service & Community Coming Together to Combat Spike in Property-Related Crime   The Winnipeg Police Service West District Crime Unit continues to see an increase in property-related crimes, particularly in the River Heights area. This is part of a seasonal trend that generally occurs at this time each year that can and does affect areas throughout Winnipeg.   These crimes include: home/vehicle break-ins, vehicle thefts and vandalism.   In response, officers have increased routine patrols in the affected areas and a series of projects, based on crime trends and intelligence-led policing initiatives are under way. Recognizing the importance citizens play in combatting these types of crimes, the Service has begun an awareness campaign that includes a door-to-door canvassing initiative and a larger public awareness campaign aimed at ensuring residents have the information they need to protect themselves from the possibility of being victimized.   We All Have a Role to Play in Crime Prevention   The messaging we are sharing applies to all residents and focuses on some of the basic steps we can all take to deter unscrupulous criminals.   Be Mindful of Crimes of Opportunity - As the weather warms, many citizens choose to sleep with their windows open for fresh air or to cool off for those residences without air conditioning.  Citizens may either forget to close the window or choose to leave it open while they are away during the day.  This provides an opportunity for criminals to gain access to residences creating greater opportunity for a potential break-in. It's important to remember that your front door is locked if and when you are working in your yard, ensure that your shed and or garage is locked when you are not in the immediate area. Each year, police receive numerous reports of thefts from residences that occur while the resident is working in their yard and someone enters through unlocked doors or windows.  The suspect then steals wallets, purses or personal items from the residence. The more proactive we can be in discouraging criminal activity, the less likely we are to become victims of crime. Consider Your Home Security System - Residents considering seasonal renovations may also wish to consider improvements to their home security plan, such as the addition or upgrade of:   Alarm systems Solid core doors Deadbolt locks Security bars Light timers Break-ins can occur at any time in any area of the city.  By adhering to these safety tips or considering some of these security options, residential property crimes can be prevented.   Put the Brakes on Thefts from Vehicles - Vehicle break-ins and or thefts can also be prevented by keeping a few simple tips in mind. In many instances, electronic items such as laptops or Global Positioning Systems (GPS) have been left in plain view within the vehicle.  The vehicles are then entered via an unsecure door or by smashing a window.    Please consider the following:   Park in well-lit areas and lock your vehicle at all times Do not leave GPS devices or cords attached to windshields or dashboards Do not leave laptops or other valuables inside your vehicle When shopping, do not leave packages inside your car, instead place them in the trunk If suspicious activity is observed in your community, please contact police immediately.   Crime Prevention Starts With the Community   While this season traditionally results in an increase in property-related crimes, the tips and information being shared today are tips we can benefit from year-round. Knowledge truly is power when it comes to Crime Prevention.   As part of your community, please know the Winnipeg Police Service will continue with its property crime education and enforcement campaign.   Working together, we can and will keep crime in check.   A wealth of related crime prevention is available through our website under the Crime Prevention tab at the top of the page. Click on Neighbourhood Safety for more information: http://www.winnipeg.ca/police/crime_prevention/neighbourhood_safety/       For further information contact either: Constable Jason Michalyshen, Public Information Officer Constable Eric Hofley, Public Information Officer Phone: (204) 986-3061 | Fax: (204) 986-3267 | Email: WPS-PIO@Winnipeg.ca Share this mailing with your social network by clicking on the appropriate link:       Related Winnipeg Police Service Report a Crime Online Crime Stoppers CrimeStat Unsubscribe If you do not want to receive these emails anymore, unsubscribe. 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