Personal Secuirty

What does that mean? If other targets are easier for the bad guys to exploit, then you and your property are less likely to be victims of crime, because the bad guys are lazy and not very bright.

There are checklists on the Security Check link, and tips here on making a hard target.

June 18, 2009 (Markham, Ontario) – The Canadian Security Association (CANASA) is advising homeowners to beware of door-to-door alarm sales companies. “Often times these companies will use scare tactics or very aggressive sales people who won’t take no for an answer. Homeowners often feel trapped into making a decision on the spot, which can lead to problems,” says Mona Emond, Director of Marketing and Communications for CANASA.

Take your time, research the companies out there and always get a minimum of three quotes. Discuss your needs with alarm companies who are members of reputable associations like CANASA because they all are governed by their membership code of ethics. Ask them to advise you on what they would suggest for your home, based on your needs and habits. Every home is different and so is every home alarm and security system. As a result, your security system should be tailored to meet both your security needs and your budget.

Do not make a commitment to any company that has not visited your home and inspected your property. Ask the alarm company for references from other satisfied customers. Find out how long they've been in business. Finally, ask them to provide you with evidence of their expertise or training -- for example, have they taken any of the CANASA alarm technician training programs or courses from a local community college?

Make sure you choose a qualified company, who has performed a site inspection/security audit and discussed your individual security needs. The company should provide you with an evaluation of your premise, highlighting the measures you can take to improve the security of your home over and above the addition of an electronic alarm system. They might suggest such simple measures as clearing brush around entrance ways and installing proper locks.

When comparing companies, be sure to make a true comparison by thoroughly reviewing the number and types of products to be installed. If there is a discrepancy, be sure you understand the impact it will have on the overall level of security you are purchasing.

When choosing a system be an intelligent consumer and continue to ask questions until you understand what you are purchasing and the level of security it will provide. Reputable companies will answer positively to most, if not all, of the following questions:

· May I see proof that your company has all applicable provincial and any applicable municipal licenses?

· Will the system be monitored, and if so, what is the cost and who will be doing it?

If you are unsure about a company that has approached you or you would like more information on this subject, please contact your local CANASA chapter or the CANASA head office at 1-800-538-9919.

The Canadian Security Association (CANASA) is a national non-profit organization, established in 1977 dedicated to promoting the interests of its members and the safety and security of all Canadians. CANASA is the national voice of the security industry and has a growing membership of more than 1,200 members across Canada, representing all segments of the industry. CANASA supports its members through a comprehensive network of services, including security education, government relations, marketing, communications, leading industry trade shows and the latest industry information and news. Visit www.canasa.org

A deadbolt lock set in a solid core or steel door with glass no less than 3 feet (1 meter) away is essential to security.

Use three inch screws to secure the striker plate so they pass through the door frame and into the 2X4 or 2X6 framing

The Business Crime Prevention Program promotes communication and education for small businesses who have walk-in clientele and less than 20 employees.

Community Police Centres provide an important link to businesses by providing them with practical crime prevention tools to combat criminal activity like theft, fraud, robberies and mischief.

Make your business a less inviting target for criminal activity -- contact your nearest Community Police Centre to obtain your free Business Crime Prevention package.

Robbery Prevention

Many robberies occur because the businesses make it convenient for the robber. Poor cash handling, housekeeping and a general lack of planning can make you an easy target for robbery.

Immediately after robbery:

Identifying a robber to police

Reporting Crime
Every year hundreds of crimes occur in Lethbridge. Approximately half of all crimes are reported to the police. It is likely that more than 50 per cent of all crimes that take place are witnessed by neighbours looking out of their windows, by a person walking a dog, and hearing the sounds of breaking glass, or by a driver observing a person swerving all over the road.
Why don't people report crime? In most cases it is because they don't want to get involved, they are afraid of being wrong, or they are not sure what to do.
A five-minute delay in reporting crime reduces the chance of catching a criminal by 65 per cent. It is your duty as a citizen to report all crime.

The emergency number for reporting a crime in progress is 9-1-1.
The phone number for non-emergency complaint calls is 403-328-4444

When reporting a 9-1-1 CALLS
Stay Calm
¨ don't get excited
¨ take a deep breath

State the Problem
¨ "I want to report a crime…."
¨ a break and enter in progress
¨ an injury accident
¨ a fire
¨ a suspicious vehicle or person

State the address of where the crime is occurring
¨ give full address
¨ give directions from nearest cross street, i.e. north, south, east, west, in the alley at the rear
¨ name, address and phone number where you are calling from

Let the police operator control the conversation.
¨ answer all questions
¨ if you wish, tell police you wish to remain anonymous
¨ give your phone number so police can call back later if necessary
¨ don't hang up - stay on the line.
¨ only hang up when told to do so by the operator.

If 9-1-1 doesn't work, dial "0" for the operator. In Lethbridge, pay telephones do not charge for 9-1-1 calls.

Major Factors in describing suspects:
1. Description of Crime
2. Physical Description
3. How suspects left area and direction of travel.
4. Type of weapon
5. Vehicle Involved
6. Vehicle description

Be aware and practice these precautions:
1. Be alert to odd behavior of others.
2. Be familiar with surroundings
3. Be aware of strangers
4. Be on the lookout for the unusual, such as unfamiliar cars in the neighbourhood, strangers, and unusual phone calls.
Reporting a crime is not a hard thing to do. The police evaluator will "walk" you through the complaint. If you wish to remain anonymous, the police will respect that wish. Remember a five-minute delay in reporting a crime reduces the chance of catching the criminal by 65 per cent.
Imagine how you would feel if you were being attacked on the street, calling out for help, and no one would come to help you. Your faith in mankind would be lowered considerably.
Yell FIRE - it always attracts attention.

It is your duty as a citizen to report crime. Get involved. Make your community a safer place to live.

Top

Criminals don't like marked property. Businesses are encouraged to participate in the Operation Provident program. Not only does placing identifying numbers on company property deter would-be thieves, it also assists police in the recovery and return of property to the rightful owner. The program consists of the following: