The last thing you want to receive on a relaxing fall or winter morning is a call from the Ontario Provincial Police telling you your cottage was broken into. But since most cottages are left unattended for long stretches during the shoulder seasons, burglaries can be more likely to occur during this time. As cottage closing approaches, the OPP has some recommendations for preventing cottage invasions over the coming months.
One of the most effective ways to reduce the likelihood of a robbery, says Provincial Constable James Clarke from Northumberland OPP, is by making it look like you’re up at the cottage. “We must consider that most cottage break-ins are crimes of opportunity. And many cottage owners unintentionally reveal that the property is vacant,” he says.
Closing up tips for seasonal cottagers
To avoid this, Clarke recommends keeping the grass mowed in the fall and spring, and arranging for snow to be regularly removed from the driveway to make the cottage appear inhabited over the winter. To go the extra mile, timers can be set on interior and exterior lights and cottagers can ask a local to stop by their property occasionally to check on things.
Also, don’t overshare on social media while away from your cottage. “Try to avoid posting real-time vacation updates, and be mindful of publicly visible location tags,” says Clarke. “You may be wanting to tell friends you’re at home in the city, but you’re also potentially telling others that your cottage is sitting empty.”
Then there’s the obvious: take home valuables that are transportable, close your blinds so burglars can’t ogle your possessions, and securely lock your cottage. But Clarke reminds cottagers that outbuildings such as sheds, garages, and boathouses should also be secured, especially those containing high-value property: ATVs, PWCs, snowmobiles, or boats. It also doesn’t hurt to siphon out remaining fuel from recreational vehicles at the end of the season, so that thieves can’t drive off, says Clarke.
Protect your ATVs and snowmobiles from theft with these tips
As online shopping has become more popular, Clarke also says doorstep theft of delivered packages has increased. “Arrange deliveries when someone can be present, and consider alternative delivery locations during the off-season,” he recommends.
To ensure your valuables can be recovered if stolen, have unique numbers or identification engraved on them to help police with their investigation. “For example, if you see your item on Facebook Marketplace and you can point to a marking that distinguishes it as yours, you can turn around and tell police and we can solve the investigation more quickly,” says Clarke. At the very least, take photos of your valuables, he adds.
Proper surveillance is also key. Cameras are increasingly common nowadays, but it’s important to position cameras to capture entrances and driveways, including waterfront access points, says Clarke. Cottagers should also ensure surveillance systems and cameras can withstand year-round weather conditions, make sure they are visible, and confirm recording systems and batteries are continuing to function throughout the winter.
Key closing up chores that you never want to forget
Neighbours make great compliments to surveillance systems. “Get to know nearby residents, exchange contact information with trusted neighbours, and encourage reporting of unusual activity,” says Clarke. “Because most suspicious activity is first noticed by neighbours and not the police.”
For the OPP, early reporting is essential. “When in doubt, call your local police service, as we’d much rather investigate suspicious activity than respond after a theft has already occurred,” says Clarke.
Related Story This clever product is an easy way to protect your septic from frost
Related Story Copper wire theft is on the rise. Here’s how cottagers can protect themselves
Related Story How to install a deadbolt lock