As we head towards winter months, cottages and seasonal homes begin to shut down for the season.
The OPP says the off-season between Thanksgiving and Victoria Day is the time when vacation homes and cottages are most vulnerable to theft.
That’s why the OPP has released a list of tips to make sure your cottage is closed up properly for the winter:
• Take all food and alcohol from the cottage.
• Take any firearms or weapons from the cottage.
• Make sure doors and windows visible from the roadway, trim any trees or shrubs that block the view
• Close window curtains and put up shutters.
• Take anything valuable from the cottage, this includes electronics, personal items, or tools
• remove any items from your yard that could be used to break into your house
• Ask a permanent resident to check on your property and give them your contact information
• Winterize any vehicles such as boats and ATV’s.
• Think about using motion sensor lights for the outside of the cottage.
• Get to know your neighbours, so you can contact the Police if you see someone who appears suspicious.
• Consider getting an alarm system for the cottage