There has been a rash of break-ins, theft from vehicles, theft of vehicles and vandalism in the community recently. Please be vigilant and report suspicious activity to EPS at 780-423-4567. If you are interested in being a representative of the Neighbourhood Watch program for Rossdale please contact Rossdalecommunity@gmail.com.
Most theft from vehicles are from unlocked vehicles. EPS is trying to get the message out to lock up cars, houses, and garages to prevent theft. Removing all valuables from vehicles is also a good practice as the vehicle is less attractive to the criminal. EPS encourages people to call them for things they may think are trivial. If a suspicious individual is observed in a neighbourhood they want to know. If someone’s car has been rummaged through, but nothing taken… they want to know. If EPS can get all this information, they are more likely to figure out who is responsible.
Other crime prevention tips for homeowners recommended by the police include:
Keep your home, garage and shed doors closed and locked while working in the yard
Don’t leave equipment, tools, bikes or other items unattended in your yard or driveway
Install deadbolt locks on your home and garage doors for added security
Close house and garage window coverings to prevent thieves from looking inside for items to steal
Close your garage door after driving in, and ensure it is closed when you are driving away
Help police track stolen items by recording the make, model and serial number of “big-ticket” items in your home or garage. This helps police return stolen property to its owner. You can also engrave your name on items, keep the receipts and register items through their warranties, or take photos of items. Criminals do not want to be caught with stolen property, and it prevents items from being sold
Report stolen items to police as soon as possible
Be aware of people walking, riding bicycles, or driving vehicles in your neighbourhood
To report any suspicious activity or individuals in Rossdale, contact the EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online.
EPS has also made it easier to report crime online at http://www.edmontonpolice.ca/ContactEPS/OnlineCrimeReporting.aspx or through the new EPS mobile app (available through Googleplay or the App store).