Crime

Prince George RCMP reporting 22% increase in rural property crime

Jan 10, 2022 | 1:59 PM

PRINCE GEORGE — Local Mounties are cautioning residents with rural properties in the Prince George area to keep an eye on their outbuildings and equipment this winter.

Since October, the RCMP has seen a 22 per cent increase in rural property crime, particularly in the area north of Chief Lake Road area.

“Rural properties can be a tempting target for thieves as the lack of close neighbours, setback houses and tree-lined properties make it easier to commit a crime without attracting attention,” says RCMP Cpl. Jennifer Cooper.

“Additionally, these homes and properties that get used seasonally means a would-be-thief is less likely to be interrupted during the off-season months.”

She says tips to help make your property safe include keeping an eye out for one another’s properties, keeping driveway gates closed and locked, and making sure any doors and windows on your outbuildings are securely locked.

The Prince George RCMP’s Community Policing Section say there are other things you can do as well, such as:

  • Installing motion sensor lights on your home and outbuildings
  • Make sure any trailers/recreational vehicles have hitch locks or wheel locks on them
  • Lock-out large pieces of equipment
  • Ensure your house number is clearly visible at the end of your driveway, and visible during the day and night, so police can find your residence quickly if needed
  • Install a good quality, high-resolution security camera on your home and/or outbuildings

If you have any information about this or any other criminal offence, you’re asked to call the Prince George RCMP at (250)561-3300 or Crime Stoppers at 1(800)222-8477.