Crime Prevention

Retail Safety and Security Guide

Retail Theft Prevention Guide

The Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police is pleased to officially announce the publication of the Retail Safety & Security Guide.

This guide was created in collaboration with our partners at the Retail Council of Canada, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services, and Toronto Police Service to help retail businesses of all sizes across Ontario prevent and reduce incidents of crime, as well as enhance customer and staff safety.

The Guide provides practical guidelines and resources to help businesses:

• Be less vulnerable to crime
• Identify and select an appropriate response to address retail crime
• Outline methods to prevent and address the most common and severe forms of retail crime
• Review techniques to address abusive customers, suspicious individuals, intoxicated individuals, as well as individuals experiencing a mental health crisis
• Provide measures to address or prevent violence in the workplace between customers or customers and staff

Break and Enter Prevention

Break-ins can be a traumatic experience, and prevention is always better than trying to deal with the aftermath. Break and enter prevention is essential to protect your home or business from unauthorized access and potential theft. Here are some break-and-enter prevention tips to help keep your home or business safe:

1. Lock all doors and windows: Ensure that all doors and windows are properly locked, including those on the second floor. Use high-quality locks and deadbolts, and consider installing a security system or smart lock.
2. Reinforce doors and windows: Consider reinforcing doors and windows with additional security measures, such as window bars or reinforced glass.
3. Install a security system: Consider installing a security system with cameras, alarms, and motion sensors to deter potential burglars. Motion-activated cameras can send you a notification when they are triggered. This may also help to reduce your insurance premiums.
4. Consider Installing motion sensor lights and keep your property well-lit: Motion-activated lights can deter burglars and alert you to their presence. Install them near entry points and vulnerable areas of your property.
5. Trim landscaping: Keep shrubs, trees, and other landscaping trimmed to eliminate hiding spots for burglars.
6. Don’t leave spare keys outside: Burglars know where to look for spare keys, so don’t leave them outside. Instead, consider giving a spare key to a trusted neighbour or family member.
7. Use timers: Use timers on indoor and outdoor lights to turn lights on and off when you are away to give the impression that someone is home.
8. Don’t advertise your absence: Avoid sharing your travel plans or posting on social media about being away from home, and ask a neighbour to collect your mail and packages while you’re away.
9. Secure valuables: Keep valuables out of sight, and consider storing them in a safe or safety deposit box.
10. Get to know your neighbours: Building relationships with your neighbours so they can keep an eye on your property when you are away. This can help to create a sense of community and discourage burglars from targeting your home.
11. Be cautious with strangers: Be cautious of strangers who come to your door, and never give out personal information or let them in without verifying their identity.

By following these break-and-enter prevention tips, you can help to keep your home or business safe from burglars.

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED)

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design, or CPTED (“sep-ted”), is an approach to deterring criminal behaviour through designing and defining the intended use of a property, residence, or business as well as helping establish who it is for and what counts as appropriate or inappropriate behaviour in it.

Generally speaking, criminals look for opportunities to commit their crimes with the least possibility of detection or getting caught.

We should also consider risk versus reward. The greater the reward, the criminal might consider taking a greater risk.

Home or Business Property Self Audit

Three things need to be present for a crime to occur.

• The offender
• Opportunity
• A victim

We can decrease our chances of becoming a victim of a crime by reducing the opportunity. We can reduce the opportunity by employing the CPTED principles as highlighted below.

There are three basic overlapping principles at the core of CPTED:

• Natural Surveillance
• Natural Access Control
• Territorial Reinforcement

Surveillance

The ability to see and be seen, or hear or be heard, by others

Good sight lines and reasons to watch others as they go about their activities make legitimate users of a space feel like if they were threatened, someone might intervene on their behalf. “Built-in” eyes and ears also increase a criminal’s risk of being caught (or at least make them think they will be).

Surveillance can be natural (open sightlines, visually permeable fencing), mechanical (cameras), or organizational (parking lot attendant).

Examples of Surveillance

Natural

• Security lighting
• Window orientation
• Porch and walkway placement
• Reducing visual obstructions such as high fences or untrimmed landscaping
• Transparent fencing, barriers, and enclosures

Mechanical

• Security cameras
• Active monitoring
• Recording

For Businesses

• Situating staff and greeters where they can monitor high-risk areas

Access Control

A means of guiding pedestrians and vehicles along desired routes and pathways in order to increase natural surveillance and establish boundaries

The goal of access control is not to cut pedestrians and drivers off from areas of their own community. Rather, it is a way to establish expectations along various routes and help people differentiate between what is public versus private space. For instance, someone attempting to enter a building from the side when spatial cues clearly direct them to the front signals to on-lookers the visitor’s behavior might be suspicious.

Access control can be natural (berms, street trees, paving), mechanical (fencing and gates), or organizational (visitor sign-in policies).

Wayfinding is a powerful – and yet, often underestimated – agent of access control. Wayfinding measures can resemble something as basic as a directional sign or carry on a more creative appeal. Color-coded or numbered elements, light pole banners, and ground markings are just a few examples of the latter.

Examples of Access Control

Natural

• Fencing, walls, boulders
• Berms, ravines, motes
• Pavement markings
• Groundcover
• Wayfinding signage, colors
• Defensive landscaping, street trees, shrub lines
• Grade changes, steps
• “Soft” traffic calming measures

Mechanical

• Incorporating security fencing and gates
• Adding locks and barriers to entry points
• Surveillance equipment at access points

For Businesses

• Reception personnel at entrances and exits
• Identification procedures for entry

Territorial Reinforcement

The use of spatial elements such as fencing, surface treatments, art, architectural elements or style, signage, and landscaping to make one site distinguishable from the next and to express ownership by its intended users

Once boundaries are established and clearly communicated, a sense of ownership, pride, stewardship, and collective efficacy can thrive, making the intended users of a place more empowered to defend it and those within it.

In the spirit of building cohesion, it is important to note that design features alone cannot produce a sense of ownership among residents, but that it takes residents of a community working together to uphold shared values.

Examples of Territorial Reinforcement

Natural

• Property maintenance
• Seasonal decorations
• “Yard art”
• Public art
• Notices of pets, weapons

Mechanical

• Roadblocks or closures
• Property-defining or access-denying barriers, such as symbolic fencing
• Signage expressing ownership

For Businesses

• Watch groups
• Parking regulations
• Facilities for specific age groups and other target populations
• Porches and decks that are clearly used

CPTED Suggestions

Although not all of the following are budget-friendly, some of the easiest things that we can do to reduce our chances of becoming a victim of theft or break and enters are:

• Keep all doors and windows to your home, outbuildings, and vehicles closed and locked at all times.
• Install solid core exterior access doors with deadbolts and properly installed strike plates..
• Install a locking bar on sliding patio doors.
• Keep your valuables out of sight.
• Don’t leave your garage door open all day and don’t leave your garage door opener in your vehicle while parked outside your residence.
• Install motion-activated lighting around your home to eliminate dark areas.
• Install a video surveillance system and know how to use it.
• Install an alarm system.
• Keep shrubbery trimmed and away from windows that may obstruct anyone seeing if a criminal is at your home or business.
• Provide an unobstructed view of the area around your property.
• Consider planting thorny landscaping around lower windows.
• Keep all sheds and outbuildings locked and secure and try to situate them where they are visible from the home.
• Make sure backyards are fenced in and access points to your backyard have gates with locks on them.

Simple changes such as these can help make your home or business less of a target to criminals.

Resources

For more detailed information on how you can make your property more secure check out the following link:

Ontario CPTED Home Security Tips and Audit Printable PDF

LaSalle Police Service Home or Business Property Self Audit Printable PDF

CPTED Canada Website

Retail Robbery Prevention Tips and Information

Convenience stores, gas stations, and late-night food retailers are unique commercial properties that are largely cash-based businesses. They are often open late or 24 hours a day, are usually operated by a lone clerk, and are conveniently located for quick in and out shopping. This, unfortunately, makes this business style an attractive target for robbers and thieves. Robberies can happen to any business at any time of the day or night during operating hours. A little preparedness can go a long way in preventing and responding to this type of crime.

“Studies have found that the most effective robbery prevention measures include: Cash Control, Elimination of Escape Routes and Visibility.”

Most crimes generally require three things to be present for a crime to occur.

• The offender
• Opportunity
• A victim

We can decrease our chances of becoming a victim of a crime by reducing the opportunity. We can reduce the opportunity by employing the CPTED principles as highlighted below.

Generally speaking, criminals look for opportunities to commit their crimes with the least possibility of detection or getting caught.

General Protective Measures

• First impressions are important. Maintain a neat and well-stocked business both inside and out.
• Greet or assist each customer as they come into the store. If a person appears to be loitering in the store, ask them if they need assistance. By greeting them in a friendly manner they know that you have already noticed them.
• Keep the interior and exterior of your business well-lit. This includes all entrances and exits.
• Remove signs/displays from windows. This way the police and the general public can see inside and respond to a potential emergency. If the windows are cluttered it is easier for the culprit to remain concealed while committing their crime.
• Always keep the rear and side doors locked.
• Install a working, high-definition surveillance system and know how to use it. Place the cameras in strategic locations inside and at the exterior of your business. Advertise the system in your business to act as a deterrent. Check it regularly and keep it in good working order. Understand how to operate the system and how to provide a copy of the surveillance recording to police in the event of an emergency. Time may be of the essence and QUALITY surveillance video is a powerful tool in an investigation and subsequent court proceedings. Do not invest in a video surveillance system that produces mediocre images or video. The higher the resolution, the easier it is to identify the culprit.
• Keep cash float levels at a minimum. A large amount of cash in the till makes you a target. Extra money should be placed in a drop or timed safe. Advertise that you have a minimum amount of cash in the till.
• Maintain a record of decoy or “bait” currency to be given to a robber.
• Avoid routine procedures which can be observed and used to the advantage of would-be robbers.
• Promote increased activity around your store. Where possible encourage taxis to use your lot, especially during the evening hours of operation. Also where possible, have deliveries made during the evening.
• Do not open your place of business before or after regular business hours.
• Call the police if a request is received to open after regular hours.

Making Your Bank Deposits

• Vary time and routine of bank trips
• Consider using a “drop” safe that can only be opened by the owner and/or manager
• Keep cash exposure and cash on-premises as low as possible
• Keep cheques separate from cash
• Go directly to the bank to make your deposits
• If possible, conceal the money, and do not leave deposits or withdrawals unattended in the car
• Do not go to the bank alone
• If possible, make deposits during daylight hours

Plan With Your Employees in Case of a Robbery

• Instruct all trusted employees in the use of the alarm and surveillance system
• Assign employees different tasks in case of a robbery and if possible have:
  • one to call the police
  • one to make observations about the robber
  • one to protect the evidence at the scene of the crime
  • one to detain witnesses

Know What to do if a Robbery Occurs

• Remain calm, robbers are usually very excited and could be easily provoked or under the influence of drugs. Try to handle the situation calmly.
• Take no action that would jeopardize the safety of you, your employees, or your customers.
• Do not attempt to physically subdue the robber. You don’t know if or what type of concealed weapon they might have. They may be armed and may harm you or others if you do not cooperate, especially if under the influence of any intoxicating substances.
• Do not argue. Obey the robber’s instructions to the best of your ability but do not volunteer to do anything that they do not ask.
• Take a good look at the suspect and immediately note any details that may be useful to police as their build, facial features, and clothing. Remember to watch the height marker as they leave the store.
• Keep the holdup note if one is used by the robber. Refrain from handling it or handle it as little as possible.
• Try to remember anything or place the robber touched so the police can check for fingerprints later.
• If possible, watch for the escape route of the robber and if a vehicle is involved, try to note its description and licence plate number.

Know What to do Immediately After a Robbery

• As soon as the robber leaves the premises quickly lock all the doors. This prevents the robber from getting back into the store and preserves evidence for the police.
• Call the police immediately as soon as robbers leave the premises and BEFORE you call anyone else, such as the store manager/owner. The few minutes following a robbery are crucial in assisting police in the apprehension of the criminal.
• Tell the dispatcher the name and exact location of your business, the description of the robber(s), the direction of travel, and whether or not you observed any weapons. Do not hang up unless the police dispatcher has told you to do so.
• Protect the scene of the crime and stop others from disturbing the scene.
• Do not touch any articles that may have been touched or left by the robbers.
• Hold all witnesses until the police arrive. If any witnesses indicate they must leave, try and get their contact information to pass on to the police. Do not discuss the robbery with any of the witnesses, only with the police. Be factual.
• Lock the doors and allow no one in except the police.
• Do not trust memory, jot down all information immediately.

Know How to Identify a Robber to the Police

• Practice identification with co-workers.
• Install a height strip on the door frame of the entrance.
• Try to notice abnormalities, speech problems, or scars.
• Notice type of build, or estimate weight.
• Notice type and colour of clothing worn.
• Observe the direction in which suspects leave and try to get a description of the vehicle from any witnesses and write down the licence number.
• Be able to describe the size, type, and colour of guns or any other weapons used in the robbery.

Surveillance and Security Cameras (aka Digital Video Recordings DVR)

We highly recommend that all retail businesses use a digital video recording (DVR) system to monitor and record customers. The use of video and photographs of suspects is highly useful in investigations and is often a deterrent.

The LaSalle Police Service cannot recommend a specific type or supplier however, we do suggest installing the highest quality system you can afford.

We also strongly suggest that you and your employees know how to operate the system in the event of an emergency. Time is often of the essence. Part of the decision process should be cloud-based storage vs. local storage. With cloud-based storage, if a robber takes the surveillance system, the footage would still be captured off-site and available to assist in the ensuing investigation. If it is stored locally, the footage stays on the system. A combined storage system stores the footage locally and via the cloud.

If you would like assistance in analyzing the safety and security features of your business, please contact Sr. Constable Terry Seguin at 519 969-5210 ext 2031 or at tseguin@lasallepolice.ca

The Grandparent / Emergency Scam

The grandparent scam is a common type of phone scam that targets older individuals, where scammers impersonate the victim’s grandchild or another family member in distress and in need of money. They may also pose as a law enforcement official claiming that their grandchild has been arrested or is in trouble and needs immediate financial assistance.

The scammers often use a sense of urgency and emotional appeal to convince the victim to wire money or send gift cards to cover the legal fees or fines the “family member” is faced with.

The “grandparent” or “emergency” scam begins after the victim receives a call from a person posing as their grandchild or another family member. “The caller may say, Grandma or Grandpa, it’s me…” What they rely on is that you identify who they are such as saying “Jane, is that you?” They will reply “Yes grandpa it’s me, Jane.” If you say that it doesn’t sound like you. “Jane” may reply that she had an accident and hurt her mouth which is why she sounds different. “Jane” will go on to tell you that they have been arrested and need bail money or that they have been in an accident and need financial help, or that they are traveling and have gotten into some sort of trouble and can’t get home and needs financial help.

They may present you with any sort of emergency situation where time is of the essence and they need the funds right away or the situation will get worse.

“Jane” may even have an accomplice who will pose as a “police officer” or “lawyer” who will speak to you over the phone and advise of the severity of the situation, the funds required to resolve the matter, and the manner in which to transfer the funds. This tactic makes the entire situation even more believable and it is easy to get caught up and anxious in wanting to help your beloved relative in any way you can.

“Jane” will ask you to keep the call private and not alert other family members about the fake situation out of embarrassment or not wanting to alarm anyone else.

Regardless of the request to keep this situation private, and even if you feel fairly certain of the caller’s identity, one of the most important things to do is to ALWAYS double-check with family members BEFORE sending any money to anyone in a situation like this. Once the money is sent, it is too late and nearly impossible to track and you could be out thousands of dollars.

In some situations, they may even arrange for someone to come to your house to pick up the money.

Please note that the police or the courts will never ask you to send money through a courier, by way of gift cards, bitcoin, or Western Union, nor will they come and pick it up. This is a scam!

If you receive a call that one of your family members is in trouble and needs bail money, please contact the police and NEVER provide personal information over the telephone, text, or email.

Here is a video from the Toronto Police Service showing how the scam is accomplished.
https://youtu.be/7JtVniV-mxY

Prevention:

The Lasalle Police Service urges the public to exercise caution and follow these preventive measures to avoid falling victim to grandparent scams:

1. Verify the caller’s identity: If you receive a call from someone claiming to be a grandchild or another family member, ask them to identify themselves. Don’t offer any information or even say their name until you’re sure of who you’re talking to. Make them tell you their name.
2. If they claim to be a grandchild, ask them a personal question that only they would know the answer to, such as their birthday or a favourite hobby. You can also call your grandchild’s parents or other family members to confirm the story.
3. Hang up and call back: If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and call your grandchild or their family directly using a phone number you know belongs to them – not the one provided by the scammer. This can help you confirm the story and avoid falling victim to a scam.
4. If the caller claims to be a law enforcement official, hang up and call your local police directly, using a phone number from a reputable source – not one provided by the suspected scammer.
5. If someone claiming to be your grandchild asks for money to be sent urgently, consider this a red flag. Scammers often use a sense of urgency to pressure their victims into sending money quickly. Be skeptical of any requests that require immediate action. Listen to that inner voice that is screaming at you “This doesn’t sound right”.
6. Don’t send money or gift cards: If the caller asks for money or gift cards, don’t send anything until you can verify their identity. Scammers often use high-pressure tactics to get victims to act quickly.
7. Check with other family members: If the caller claims to be in trouble, contact other family members to confirm the story before sending any money. Don’t rely on the caller’s word alone.
8. In these circumstances, never send cash or wire transfers: Scammers often ask for money to be sent through wire transfer services, such as Western Union or MoneyGram. These types of transfers are difficult to trace and can be irreversible, making it easy for scammers to disappear with the money.
9. It is important to know the Canadian Criminal Justice System does not allow for someone to be bailed out of jail with cash or cryptocurrency.
10. Don’t give out personal information: Scammers may ask for personal information such as your Social Insurance number or credit card information. Don’t give out this information over the phone.
11. Be careful what you post online. Scammers can get details that you shared on social media platforms and dating sites to target you or get names and details about your loved ones. Adjust your privacy settings to limit the amount of personal information that is publicly available.
12. Don’t trust caller ID names and numbers. Scammers use technology to disguise the actual number they are calling from and can make it appear as a trusted phone number, such as your local police service or another government agency. This is also known as spoofing.
13. Report suspicious activity: If you suspect that you’ve been targeted by the grandparent scam, report the incident to your local police service and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. https://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/report-signalez-eng.htm
14. Stay up to date on current scams: Keep up with the latest scams and frauds by regularly reading publications from the organizations such as the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre – Scams: http://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca
15. Report Suspicious Activity:** If you receive a suspicious call or encounter any potential scam, report it to the Lasalle Police Service immediately.

By following these tips and remaining vigilant, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to the grandparent scam.

Sextortion

What is Sextortion?

Sextortion is a form of blackmail or extortion that involves someone online threatening to send a sexual image or video of you to other people if you don’t pay them or provide more sexual content.

Anyone can become a victim of sextortion but youths are usually the targeted victims.

How Does Sextortion Occur?

Sextortion involves an offender befriending a person through any site, app, messaging platform, or gaming platform where people meet and communicate. Most of these situations begin with the victim receiving a random friend request from a stranger on one of these platforms.

In some cases, the first contact from the offender will be a threat that they claim to already have a revealing picture or video of the victim that will be shared if they don’t send money or more pictures.

In most cases, however, the offender often begins by pretending to be a young girl or woman, regardless of the gender of the victim, and will also pretend to be similar in age to the victim and who is interested in a relationship or is willing to trade sexually explicit photos or videos. For some, the temptation is too hard to resist.

They chat over a short period of time, usually several hours, but in some cases, as little as 20 minutes and the conversation will become sexual in nature. During that time the sextorters will try to convince their victims to exchange sexual content and often start the trade by sharing a sexual photo first. The victim then sends a sexual photo or video of themselves or is tricked into exposing themselves or engaging in a sexual act over a live stream. What the victim doesn’t know is that they are being recorded.

Immediately after receiving the sexual content, the sextorter makes demands for money or more images. They will threaten to leak the content online or share it directly with the victim’s friends/family or they may threaten violence if the victim doesn’t comply. They will try to intimidate their victim by telling them that their lives will be ruined and that they will bring shame to their families. It’s common for the offender to share screenshots of the victim’s contacts or other identifying information (school, home address) to terrify the victim into sending money or more sexual photos.

If a female is victimized, the sextorter typically demands additional sexual photos and videos. If the sextorter targets a male, they almost always demand money or some form of payment.

If the victim gives in, the sextorter will often demand more sexual photos or money. Sextorters will sometimes barter and accept a lower amount if the victim says they cannot pay.

The shame, fear, and confusion victims, especially youths, feel when they are caught in this cycle often prevents them from asking for help or reporting the abuse. Caregivers and young people should understand how these crimes occur and openly discuss online safety.

Sextortion Prevention Tips

• Limit the amount of personal information you post, making it difficult for scammers to learn information about you.
• Set your social media privacy settings to limit who can contact you.
• Don’t accept unknown friend requests.
• Cover your webcam when you aren’t using it so you can’t be recorded without your consent.
• Don’t click on links or download files from unknown sources. Anti-virus software can help filter out potentially dangerous emails.
• Requests for intimate images of yourself should be a red flag and never send them to any social media platform or electronic device.
• Think first before sharing sexual images of yourself with anyone. You may not trust someone tomorrow that you trusted today. Once you share those images you no longer have control over where they go, what happens with them, or who sees them.

Tips For Parents

• Let your children know you are available to talk at any time.
• Let them know they can come to you or another safe adult with questions or problems, and that you can help if something has happened – even if they’ve made a mistake.
• Talk about online safety, privacy, establishing boundaries, healthy relationships and consent.
• Talk to them about not giving in to pressure and breaking off communication if they feel threatened or uncomfortable.
• Talk to them about befriending strangers online and the information they share.
• Make them aware of online threats like sextortion, fake profiles, and fraud.
• Look for resources on how to keep your child safe online.
• Monitor your child’s online activities, social media profiles and who they are friends with.
• Learn about parental controls on platforms your child uses.
• Excellent resource with videos – Essex County Youth Diversion – Keep Your Privates Private
• Offers good tips – https://protectchildren.ca/en/.

What to do if You Are a Victim of Sextortion

• Stop all communication with the offender.
• DO NOT comply with any threats or demands. DO NOT send any money or any more images.
• DO NOT give in to threats. So, never pay money and never send additional nudes. The situation won’t get better. If you’ve already paid money, check to see if it has been collected. If it hasn’t – quickly cancel the payment.
• Deactivate, but do not delete your social media account or images.
• Save all texts, images, and communications.
• Take screenshots of the messages and the person’s profile including their user name.
• If you are a youth, or even if you are legally an adult, tell your parent or guardian, so they can help you.
• Contact your local police service to report the incident – you are not alone!
• Make a report through Cybertip.ca – Sextortion reports are forwarded to the police.
• Report the suspect user through the social media platform from which they are contacting you.
• Trust that there is life after images. The offender might make you feel like your life is ruined, but you are not alone. Don’t deal with this alone. We can get through this together!

Even though financial sextortion is committed virtually, it can have serious impacts offline. After the threats and aggression, victims can feel alone, ashamed, scared, and sometimes desperate – to the point where they can harm themselves. Countless children and adults in Canada and around the world have been threatened in this way. There are resources and supports available to help. You are not alone.

If You Need Help, There Are Resources Available to You:

• Cybertip.ca provides information on staying safe online and how to report any concerns. You can provide your name and contact information, or complete the form anonymously. Their staff can assist youth in crisis and help them and their family through the incident.
• Cybertip.ca also manages Project Arachnid. This program helps victims have their images removed if they are shared publicly.
• Don’t Get Sextorted has information on staying safe and getting help.
• Need Help Now provides information on emotional support, reporting, helping a friend, and answering frequently asked questions.
• Public Safety Canada provides youth, parents and caregivers with educational resources on Online Dangers, including sextortion.
• Kids Help Phone can provide urgent support in terms of emotional support and steps on what to do next.
• The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre has sextortion resources available to the public.
• The Department of Justice’s Victim Services Directory can provide information on resources in your community available to victims of online child sexual exploitation.

LaSalle Police Service – 519 969-5210

Fraud/Cyber Fraud

Craig’s List Scam

It involves the scenario where an unknown male telephones the residence and identifies himself as an employee from the Government of Canada ” Do Not Call List”. He informs the victim that they are on a “Do Not Call List” and that he wanted to remove them from the list. The male explains that in order to block someone from calling you, all you have to do once you hang up, is to push a PIN number and that person is blocked. The male tells the caller that they will be receiving a telephone call shortly to supply them with the PIN number and that he would return the telephone call later.

Victims should immediately use the Bell Canada security feature of *57 to record the last number before they receive the next call. Victims should try and obtain a name from the male and/or any accents or peculiarities.

After the initial telephone call is completed, the victim receives another call within seconds. This call appears to be automated and there is an unknown female’s voice relaying a PIN number. The victim is supplied a number that is; 41859. After this call, the caller should again use the Bell Canada Security feature *57 to trace the call.

After this telephone call the victim receives a telephone call from the unknown male who asks the victim for the PIN number. Do not supply this number and simply hang up the telephone call and, again use the *57 feature.

The male explains that once the victim receives a call from these telemarketers, they simply hang up, and press the PIN number.

That is not true, once the victim gives this 5 digit number out to the caller, the culprit will then supply this number to Craig’s List. Once on Craig’s list it will be available for ads and the telephone number will be associated to it, thus increasing calls from telemarketers. There is no cost to the victim other than a nuisance.

The victim must now contact Craig’s list and inform them of the abuse to have it cease. Craig’s list will abide by the request from the victim.

The victim shall use this statement to report to Craig’s List at ABUSE@CRAIGSLIST.ORG: ” I fell victim to a Craig’s List scam. Please do not run any ads with my telephone number (supply number) or this code (supply 5 digit code). ”

After using the Bell Canada security feature, call LaSalle Police immediately so they may investigate the matter.

Internet Fraud Awareness

Internet Fraud Scams are on the rise and an increasing number of people are falling victim to them. These scams work very well because they seem real and often have some of your personal information, which may help them seem more legitimate.

Some of the more common scams are:

• You have won an overseas lottery and need to send information and sometimes even money to obtain your prize.
• An individual is leaving a war-torn or third world nation and have millions of dollars they are trying to bring with them. They ask for your banking information to wire the money to and promise you a large cash payout for helping them.
• A person contacts you after reading a for sale add on a website and offers to buy your item. They will tell you they are from over seas and could only obtain a money order or certified cheque for a sum much higher than your asking price. You will be asked to cash the money order and send them the difference and the item you are selling.

In all three of these scams the suspects are asking for personal and banking information and are often making promises that seem “to good to be true”. In all three of these situations the promises are too good to be true.

How could you win a lottery you’ve never entered, why would a millionaire need help moving money from the bank and why ask a stranger to help and lastly, why would a bank write a money order for ten thousand dollars more than a person requested.

These scammers are often based in Europe or the Middle East and it is almost impossible to track them down once information and money have been sent.

Always remember, if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. If you are unsure about and email or phone call you have received ask a family member, your bank or your local police service.

Canadian Anti Fraud Centre
Visit Website
Anti Fraud Centre Website

Contact Anti Fraud Centre
By Phone: 1-888-495-8501

Online: Fraud Reporting System

Gift Card Scams

Every year, thousands of Canadians are scammed out of millions of dollars through various scams. Many of these scams are carried out over the telephone, through e-mail, and through text messages.

You might receive a telephone call from someone you don’t know, claiming to be from a Government agency who states that you have an outstanding debt and owe money. They may also say that you are in some sort of trouble or that a warrant has been issued for your arrest and to avoid going to jail you must pay immediately. They may demand payment by having you go to the store and purchase gift cards or prepaid credit cards and giving them the PIN and the verification numbers on the back of the card.

No real business or government agency will ever insist you pay them with a gift card. Anyone who demands to be paid with a gift card is a scammer.

What is a Gift Card Scam

You will know that it is a scam the moment that someone tells you to pay them with a gift card that is not for purchases from their company. Remember, gift cards are for gifts, not for payments.

Gift cards are popular with scammers because they’re sold at many retail locations and are easy for people to find and buy. There are almost no protections for buyers compared to some other payment options, and once you use a gift card, or in this case, give the PIN and verification numbers to someone else, the money on it is gone. Once they have the gift card number and the PIN, they have your money.

If someone calls and asks that you pay them with gift cards, that’s a scammer calling.

Scammers may tell you different stories to get you to pay them with gift cards, but this is what usually happens:

• The caller says that the matter is urgent. They say you have to pay right away or something terrible will happen or you will be arrested.

They want to scare or pressure you into acting quickly, so you don’t have time to think or talk to someone you trust.

If this happens to you, STOP. Don’t pay. HANG UP. IT’S A SCAM.

• The caller usually tells you which gift card(s) to buy such as Steam, Google Play, Itunes, Apple, etc… They might send you to a specific store, such as Walmart, Shoppers Drugs, Circle K, or a local grocery store that sells gift cards. Sometimes they tell you to buy cards at several different stores so cashiers won’t get suspicious. They may insist that you stay on the phone with them while you go to the store to buy the gift cards.

If this happens to you, STOP. HANG UP. IT’S A SCAM.

• The caller will ask you for the gift card number and PIN. The card number and PIN on the back of the card let the scammer get the money you loaded onto the card. Once you give them the card number and PIN, your money is gone and you won’t be able to get it back.

If this happens to you, STOP. Don’t give them those numbers. IT’S A SCAM.

How Can You Spot the Scam

Only scammers try to convince you to pay with gift cards. Remember, no legitimate business or Government agency will demand any type of payment by way of a gift card.

If you know how to spot their tactics, you’ll be able to avoid the scam and help others spot and avoid it. Here’s a list of common gift card scams and schemes:

• CRA Scam or CBSA Scam. The caller says they’re from the government — such as the Canada Revenue Agency or Canada Border Services Agency. They say you have to pay taxes or a fine. IT’S A SCAM.
• Tech Support Scam. Someone calls from tech support, maybe saying they’re from Apple or Microsoft. You may also get a pop-up on your computer telling you that there is a virus in your computer with a number to call to fix it. They say there’s something wrong with your computer and you have to pay them to get it fixed. But it’s a lie. They will ask you for remote access to your computer and will install viruses in your computer that can allow them access to sensitive information about you, including passwords and banking info all while charging you a fee to “fix” your computer. IT’S A SCAM.
• Romance Scam – You meet someone special on a dating website, but then they need money and ask you to help them. This scammer makes up any story to trick you into sending them money or gift cards. STOP. Never send money or gifts to anyone you haven’t met in person, even if they send you money first. IT’S A SCAM.
• Emergency Scam – The scammer calls and pretends to be a friend or family member in an emergency and asks you to send money right away and tells you not tell anyone. Hang up and call the friend or relative to check that everything is all right. IT’S A SCAM.
• Lottery, Prize, or Sweepstakes Scam. You receive a phone call, text or e-mail saying that you’ve won a prize, but first, you have to pay fees or other charges by sending money or by paying with a gift card. Remember: no legitimate business or agency will ever make you pay with a gift card and NEVER send money to anyone you don’t know and trust. You also should question if you even entered that lottery or sweepstakes. IT’S A SCAM.
• Utility Company Scam. The caller says they’re from your hydro company or another utility company. They may threaten to cut off your service if you don’t pay immediately. They may also try to convince you to sign up for services through misleading tactics. Always read the fine print before agreeing to anything. If you are being pressured to pay immediately, hang up and contact your utility company directly to make sure. Legitimate utility companies don’t work that way. IT’S A SCAM.
• Overpayment Scam. You sell something and get a check from someone for way more than you expected. They tell you to deposit the check, then give them the difference by wiring, e-transferring the money, or by way of a gift card. Don’t do it. That cheque they gave you will be fake or stolen and you’ll be out all that money. IT’S A SCAM.

Gift Cards With Zero Balance After Purchase

The LaSalle Police Service is issuing a public advisory to raise awareness about gift card scams resulting in depleted balances shortly after purchase.

In these types of scams, a person attends a retail location and selects a gift card from the gift card display. They bring it to the register where they pay for the value of the card and it is activated by the clerk. Most of the time there is no issue but sometimes the card has already been compromised by a criminal and the moment the card is activated with the funds at the time of purchase, the criminal drains the gift card online or they are automatically deposited into the scammers account.

Scammers often use various tactics to steal gift card balances before they are purchased. You’ll only know that your gift card balance has been stolen when your gift card payments are declined or you check the balance on the card.

Common methods:

• Tampering with Packaging: Scammers may steal several gift cards from the store. They will discreetly open gift card packaging, record the card number and PIN, and then reseal the packaging to make it appear untouched. They will then return the compromised gift card to the gift card display. Unsuspecting consumers might purchase these tampered cards without realizing their compromised state.
• Tampering with Card Barcodes and Activation Codes: Scammers may add new barcode stickers on top of real gift card barcodes that automatically deposit balances into scammers’ gift card accounts. Run your finger over the back of the gift card to detect if there is a sticker over the real barcode. They may also copy down gift card numbers from store displays.
• Tampering with Activation Codes: Scammers may steal several gift cards from store displays and copy down the gift card numbers. They then carefully peel off or remove the activation stickers or scratch-off stickers on gift cards, revealing the hidden codes. After capturing this information, they place the stickers back or put on a new scratch-off sticker (which can be purchased online in bulk for under $10.00 for over 100 of them) leaving the card seemingly intact for the next purchaser. They have methods to automatically check when the card has been activated and will use the authentic activation code to take the funds.
• Skimming Devices: In some cases, criminals use skimming devices at the point of sale to capture the information from gift cards. These devices can discreetly collect data, allowing fraudsters to access the card’s details and drain its balance.
• Remote Scanning: Advanced techniques involve the use of technology to remotely scan gift cards for activation codes or PINs. Criminals exploit vulnerabilities in the card’s security features, allowing them to capture essential details without direct physical contact.

What to do:

• When buying a gift card, carefully check the packaging or PIN label. Don’t just look for the obvious dismantling of a card, however. Scammers work hard to be discreet, using razor blades to separate the envelopes or scratch the PIN labels off with care. If the card looks tampered with in any way, turn it in to the cashier and buy a different gift card.
• Since impatient thieves will put the gift cards they swiped back on the front of the rack, select gift cards that are less accessible. At a grocery store gift card kiosk, for example, you might select a card hanging in the middle position on one of the pegs rather than those that are hanging in the first position. In other words, don’t be lured by the most obvious gift card on the rack. Secondly, inspect the gift card to make sure the packaging doesn’t look altered in any way.
• To protect yourself from falling victim to these scams, it’s essential to thoroughly inspect gift card packaging before purchase, choose reputable retailers, and report any suspicious findings to store personnel. Additionally, shielding activation codes and PINs, as well as promptly verifying the card’s balance after purchase, can help mitigate the risk of gift card fraud.
• Keep your receipt and tell the company that issued the card right away. In some instances, if you discover that the funds on the card are missing quickly enough and the funds have not been spent by the scammer, the gift card company may be able to cancel the card and refund the money or reissue a replacement card.
• Always check your receipt to make sure that the code number on the gift card matches the number on the receipt. Also make sure that the type of card matches as well. For example, if you purchased a gift card for a specific company it shouldn’t say any other company on the receipt.

What To Do If You Paid a Scammer with Gift Cards

If you paid a scammer with a gift card, tell the company that issued the card right away. Keep the card and any receipts you have.

Contact information for some gift card companies

Amazon

• Call 1 (888) 280-4331 and follow the instructions provided.
• Keep the Amazon card itself and your receipt for the Amazon card.
• Learn about Amazon gift card scams and how to report them. Once on their webpage, click on “Contact us” to report the scam.

eBay

• Chat with eBay customer support, or have a representative call you back
• Keep the eBay gift card itself and your receipt for the eBay gift card.
• Learn about scams using eBay gift cards and how to report them.

Google Play

• Report the gift card scam to Google. If you don’t have a Google account, fill out this form.
• Keep the Google Play card itself and your receipt for the Google Play card.
• Learn about Google Play gift card scams and how to report them.

iTunes

• Contact Apple Support right away online. Once you get to the web page, select the method that you would like to communicate with them, presumably by telephone. Select the by phone button and a representative will call you within a specified amount of time.
• Ask if the money is still on the iTunes card. If so, Apple can put a freeze on it. You might be able to get your money back from them.
• Keep the iTunes card itself and your receipt for the iTunes card.

Learn about iTunes gift card scams and how to report them.

Steam

• Report the gift card scam to Steam through Steam Support.
• Keep the Steam card itself and your receipt for the Steam card.
• Learn about Steam gift card scams.

Best Buy

• Call 1 (888) 237-8289 and follow Best Buy’s instructions.
• Keep a copy of the Best Buy gift card or your store receipt.
• Visit Best Buy’s website to learn about scams.

Sephora

• Call 1 (877) 737-4672 and follow Sephora’s instructions.
• Keep a copy of the Sephora gift card or your store receipt.
• Visit Sephora’s website to learn about scams.

Vanilla

• Call 1 (833) 322-6760 and follow Vanilla’s instructions.
• Keep a copy of the Vanilla card or your store receipt.

Visa

• Call 1 (800) 847-2911 and follow Visa’s instructions.
• Keep a copy of the Visa gift card or your store receipt.
• Visit Visa’s website to learn about scams.

Walmart

• Call 1 (888) 537-5503 and follow Walmart’s instructions.
• Keep a copy of the Walmart gift card or your store receipt.
• Visit Walmart’s website to learn about scams.

Don’t see your card on this list? Look for the company’s contact information on the card itself, or do some research online to find out how to reach the card issuer.

Report Fraud

If someone asks you to pay them with gift cards:

• Report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online or call 1-888-495-8501.
• Report it even if you didn’t pay. Your report helps law enforcement stop scams.
• If you’ve lost money, report it to your local police service.

Crime Prevention Tips

The LaSalle Police Service has listed numerous safety tips for you and your family. Please feel free to review these helpful tips as outlined. The LaSalle Police Service is fortunate to have a dedicated Community Liaison Officer whose mandate in part is to develop, implement and assists the community of LaSalle with various crime prevention programs and initiatives. Currently, our Community Liaison Officer (CLO) is Senior Constable Terry Seguin and his duties include but are not limited to:

• Manage community service projects, i.e.: Seniors Safety seminars regarding fraud, identity theft, Liaison with LaSalle Block Parent, LaSalle Road Watch and Neighbourhood Watch, MADD;
• Liaison for the LaSalle Community Police Advisory Committee (CPAC);
• Instruct and ensure delivery of the Values, Influences and Peers (V.I.P.) programs within all LaSalle elementary schools;
• Conduct business information seminars;
• Supervise and train Adult Crossing Guards; Deliver training for the School Safety Patrol programs; Secondary School and Elementary School educator and liaison facilitator;
• Conducts and coordinates community awareness programs such as Child Seat Inspection clinics and the annual seat belt program;
• Coordinates Bicycle Rodeos, guest lectures upon request, and facilitates Community fundraising programs dealing with crime prevention.

Sexual Abuse Safety Tips

Properly supervising children is the best way to prevent child sexual abuse. Children who are not supervised well can become emotionally vulnerable and, in turn, fall prey more easily to sexual abusers offering affection, attention and friendship.

You can prevent child sexual abuse by becoming knowledgeable about the topic and by reporting any good faith suspicions you may have to the authorities. By becoming knowledgeable, you might be more aware of potential sexual problems in others, including young children and teenagers, or recognize inappropriate behavior by adults.

The sexual abuse of children must be stopped before it happens. Prevention actions include encouraging the media to inform the public about child sexual abuse, recognizing potential child molesters early and directing them to appropriate services, empowering parents to protect their children, and keeping chronic, untreatable child molesters away from children permanently. To truly prevent child abuse of any kind, we need to create a society that respects children, protects them from harm, and shows them how to treat others in a positive and non-exploitive manner.

If you would like more information about Sexual Abuse Safety Tips for you and your children please call any one of the local Community Service Providers or Community Partners.

Internet Luring Safety Tips

Children Lured To Porn on The Net

Online pornographers have begun luring children with a new “bait & switch” ploy that links sexually explicit sites to cartoon characters and other web addresses that appeal to the youngest computer users.

One site even encouraged repeat visits by offering prizes for viewing more photos, and a child who stumbles on some porn sites can find it impossible to leave. Technology allows the sites to capture the visitor’s browser and then each click of the mouse just brings up another explicit photo.

The sites use young children to click on banner ads which generate revenue for the web site. While innocently in the site and trying to get out, children and be exposed to dozens of sexually explicit photographs. In other situations, teenagers are using mom and dad’s credit cards to “peek” at pornographic photos. The parents don’t find out until they receive a huge bill.

Preventing And Dealing With Exposure To Porn

What should you do if you discover your child has seen sexually explicit material on the Internet? It can be an uncomfortable topic for any parent and child to discuss. What you say will vary depending on the age of the child.

Ilene Berson, a faculty member at the Louis de la Parte Florida Mental Health Institute in Florida, has surveyed 6,800 kids about online behavior. She offers the following advice:

• Children ages 9 and under shouldn’t be allowed to surf the Web alone. They need to be closely supervised; If your adolescent child sees sexually explicit images, stay calm. Kids are resilient, even when it comes to fleeting exposure to images that you might find disturbing. They want information and reassurances. Don’t launch into crisis mode. If you blow up, they’ll get scared and they will never tell you if it happens again;
• Praise your child for showing you or telling you about what they’ve seen on line. Say, “I’m really glad you showed me.” Ask them what they think happened and let their questions guide your responses;
• Explain that the porn site is just for adults, not kids. Remind them that they can always talk to you if they see anything disturbing again;
• Set clear rules about using the Internet alone. Tell your kids you want to know where they’re going and what they’ll do once they arrive;
• Ask questions. If your adolescent son or daughter disappears into the bedroom for three hours, find out what’s been going on. If they don’t volunteer the information, you can use your browser’s history file to find out where they’ve been;
• Be proactive. Adolescent kids are bound to explore their interests – a taboo topic like sex – on the Internet. Make sure they know they can always come to you with questions;
• Make sure they don’t turn to chat rooms for a sympathetic ear. That leaves the door open for pedophiles who are looking for any opportunity to establish a rapport with their young victims. Suggest the names of responsible adults they can confide in when they’re upset with you.

If you would like more information about Internet Luring Safety Tips for you and your children please call any one of the local Community Service Providers or Community Partners.

Domestic Violence Safety Tips

• During an argument, or if you feel tension building, avoid areas in your home where weapons might be available – the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom or workshops;
• If there are weapons in your household such as firearms – lock them up;
• Know where there is a safe exit from your home – a window, elevator or stairwell;
• Discuss the situation with a trusted neighbor if you can. Ask them to call 911 if they hear a disturbance. Find a code word to use with them if you need the police;
• Always keep a packed bag ready; Know where you would go to be safe if you have to leave, even if you don’t really think you need to.

Remember that no one ever deserves to be abused. It is not your fault.

Always call the Police if you are concerned for your safety.

A Safe Place provides free services for women and children who are victims of domestic abuse. Translators, and other assistance are available. Please contact one of the Community Service Providers or Community Partners.

If you would like more information about A Safe Place or Safety Planning for you and your children please call any one of the local Community Service Providers or Community Partners.

Burglar-proofing Homes

The easiest way to protect yourself from burglars is to take preventative measures. These measures, which can be as simple as lighting schemes or as complex as security alarms, vary according to your plans and financial capabilities.

Going on Vacation

Before going on vacation, contact your newspaper and arrange to put a stop or vacation hold on your daily delivery, or ask a neighbor to collect your newspapers for you. Go to the Post Office and fill out a vacation hold form to keep your mail from accumulating. Piles of unchecked mail and unread newspapers are a green light to burglars looking for potential targets.

A timer, which turns lamps and lighting on and off at set times, is inexpensive and available at most major retail outlets. Simply plug it in and set your lighting scheme. In addition to conserving energy – you don’t have to keep the lights on constantly, the lights may fool burglars into thinking someone is home.

Another idea is to make your home “look” occupied. Give your neighbors permission to park in your driveway and to use your trash can if you will be away for extended periods. Ask them to pick up notices, fliers or deliveries left on your porch. Be sure to leave a phone number so they can, or the police, can reach you just in case.

At Home

When you purchased your computer, what did you do with the boxes? Throw them in your garbage can? This is an open invitation to burglars, announcing that you have new (and probably expensive) equipment in your home. The best thing do with boxes like these is to fold them and then cut them down, or take them to a recycling center.

Investing in motion detector lights for your garage or backyard area can be a worthy investment. Look for lights that allow you to set the sensitivity (the light is of little use if passing leaves set it off) and place them where maximum light will reach entry points, such as a back door or car doors.

Keep in mind that just because you’re at home doesn’t mean you’re safe from a burglar. Truly desperate criminals have been known to sneak in an upstairs window, rob your upper floors of all valuables and then sneak out, undetected. Keep all windows and doors locks when you’re home as well as when you’re at work. Be sure to keep valuable items, like your purse or extra car keys, awake from unlocked doors. It’s quite simple for a thief to open the front door, snatch your purse or keys and be off while you’re singing to the kitchen radio.

Similarly, avoid placing spare keys outside, especially anywhere near the door. If someone needs a spare key, make other arrangements, such as leaving the key with a neighbor or in a strategic place in the backyard. Invest in a deadbolt for every outer door; experts and law enforcement officials agree that deadbolt locks are the hardest to break and one of the cheapest security investments you can make.

Make sure all entries into your home – windows, doors and the garage area – are secure. If you use an automatic garage door opener and will be gone for a few days, place a large box or other obstacle in front of the door (on the inside). Because the opener’s infrared signal sees the obstacle, it will automatically trigger a non-opening command. Initially designed to keep garage doors from crushing children and pets, this useful feature can also help prevent burglaries. Another idea is to disengage the electricity to the garage door altogether.

Consider investing in an alarm system if you are truly concerned about safety, particularly if you live in a high-crime area or homes in your neighborhood have been recently victimized. Alarm systems range from simple beeping alarms to complex systems that alert the police department of an intruder. Keep in mind, however, that even with the relative safety of an alarm system, you still need to take standard, common-sense precautions for home safety.

Finally, make sure your homeowner’s or renters insurance is current and your home inventory is up-to-date and safely stored away. You’ll need these documents should the unthinkable happen. A good spot for an inventory sheet, as well as other valuable documents like wills and court papers, is a fire-proof safe (hide it well) or a plastic pouch in your freezer.

If You’re a Victim

There’s nothing more frightening than coming home from a wonderful vacation to discover someone has been in your house and stolen your things. Because burglars are rarely considerate, your house may have considerable damage to it as well as being empty of your possessions.

The first thing you need to do is call the police. Use the neighbor’s telephone if possible – you don’t want to take the chance that the burglar might still be in your home. Don’t move or touch anything until the police have had a chance to investigate and check for fingerprints or other clues.

After the police have taken a report and given you the okay to start picking up, contact your insurance company. They will ask you for a list of stolen things; locate your inventory sheet and start from there. Be as accurate as possible and be sure to account for any new items you may have acquired but not yet added to your inventory list.

Alert your neighbors of the break-in as soon as possible. They will want to be on the lookout and take safety precautions in case the offender takes a liking to your neighborhood.

You don’t have to spend a ton of money to have a good security setup. All it takes a little bit of time and caution!

Hate Crimes Safety Tips

You cannot insure that you will never become a hate crime victim. No hate crime victim is to blame for the crime committed against him or her. Nevertheless, these few safety tips may be helpful:

• Trust your gut! If you feel threatened or unsafe, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation as quickly as possible;
• Letting someone you do not know into your home or apartment makes you vulnerable to robbery and assault. If you leave a bar with someone you have just met, introduce him or her to a friend or bartender. Let other people know that you are leaving together. Ask for your date’s first name and phone number, where they work and live, what they like and do not like. Ask around if anyone knows the person;
• Mix your own drinks/don’t leave drinks unattended: getting you drunk or drugging you is an easy way for someone to cloud your judgment;
• If you would like more information about Hate Crimes Safety Tips for you and your children please call any one of the local Community Service Providers or Community Partners; Block Parents:
• Block Parents are responsible adults who care sufficiently about the well-being of children and others to volunteer their homes as a temporary refuge in an emergency. All Block Parents are screened by the police and are given instructions on the program by local volunteers;
• V.I.P. Program: Values-Influences-Peers program assists in the development of confidence and sense of self-worth in our youth. This program is offered to the grade six classes at all schools within our community;
• The program rationalizes that individuals who feel good about themselves and who have a positive sense of their own identity are more likely to interact with others in a positive way. The expectation is that students will respect the values and laws of their society;
• High School Liaison/Facilitator was developed in partnership with the area secondary school principals, where the police service through a liaison officer would act as a resource person to the students, staff and parents;
• The liaison officer is available during both junior and senior lunch periods so that students have a better opportunity to visit, with the expectation of students developing a rapport and trust with the officer.

Halloween Safety Tips

Trick or Treaters

• Carry a flashlight;
• Walk, don’t run;
• Stay on the Sidewalks (If no sidewalk) walk on the left side of the road facing traffic;
• Obey all traffic signals;
• Stay in familiar neighborhoods;
• Don’t cut across yards or driveways;
• Wear a watch that you can read in the dark;
• Make sure costumes don’t drag on the ground; Shoes should fit (even if they don’t go with your costume);
• Avoid wearing masks while walking from house to house;
• Carry only flexible knives, swords or other props;
• Wear clothing with reflective markings or tape;
• Approach only houses that have lighting on;
• Stay away from and don’t pet animals you don’t know.

Parents

• Ensure your child has a meal before setting out;
• Children should carry quarters so they can call home;
• An adult should accompany young children of any age;
• If your children go on their own, be sure they wear a watch, preferably one that can be read in the dark;
• If you buy a costume, look for one made of flame-retardant material;
• Older children should know where to reach you and when to be home;
• Know the exact neighbourhoods they are going to;
• Although tampering is rare, advise children to bring the candy home to be inspected before consuming anything;
• Examine the wrapping carefully and if anything looks suspicious call the LaSalle Police Service 969-5210 ext. 0.

Homeowners

• Ensure your yard is clear of such things as ladders, hoses, dog leashes and flowerpots that can trip the young ones;
• Pets get frightened on Halloween. Put them away to protect them from cars or inadvertently biting a trick-or-treater;
• Battery powered Jack O’Lantern candles are preferable to a real flame;
• If you do use candles, place the pumpkin well away from where trick-or-treaters will be walking or standing;
• Make sure paper or cloth yard decorations won’t be blown into a flaming candle;
• Give away healthy food or non-food treats such as plastic rings, pencils, stickers, erasers and coins.

For further information, please contact Senior Constable Terry Seguin, Community Liason Officer at 519-969-5210 ext 2031

Porch Pirate Crime Prevention Tips

Porch piracy, also known as package theft, occurs when individuals steal packages left on doorsteps or porches after delivery. There have been several incidents of parcel theft in LaSalle over the past year and we would like to remind our community of some tips that could help in reducing your chances of becoming a victim.

Here are some crime prevention tips:

• Install Security Cameras
  Visible surveillance cameras act as a deterrent and can provide evidence if a theft occurs. Please consider the height of the camera. The higher a camera is positioned the more of a top-down view you will get. Doorbell cameras give more of an eye-level view.

• Visible Security Measures
  Display signs indicating surveillance or security measures to deter potential porch pirates.
• Smart Doorbells
  Utilize smart doorbell technology to monitor and communicate with delivery personnel remotely.
• Motion-Activated Lighting
  Install motion-activated lights around your porch to discourage theft, especially during the night.
• Secure Delivery Location
  Have your parcel delivered to a local post office or a secure package locker at a retail location. You could also request deliveries to a trusted neighbour, or have packages delivered to your workplace if possible.
• Scheduled Deliveries
  Schedule deliveries for times when you or someone you trust will be home to receive the package.
• Signature Confirmation
  Request signature confirmation for deliveries to ensure packages are handed directly to you or a designated recipient.
• Prompt Retrieval
  Keep track of tracking information and retrieve packages promptly once they are delivered.
• Lockable Box
  Purchase and install a lockable package delivery box that owners unlock with a key.
• Package Tracking Apps
  Use package tracking apps that provide real-time updates on your deliveries, allowing you to be aware of when to expect them.

If your package was delivered and it has been stolen, report it to your local police service, the delivery company, and the merchant.