The Regina Police Service is askingReginaresidents and business owners to take a critical look at their homes and business premises with crime prevention in mind. The simple act of locking a door can save loss of money, property, time and one’s sense of safety.
The Regina Police Service received two reports on March 9th of an unknown person making unauthorized entry into the back door of a business and rummaging through employees’ belongings and other property. The first event occurred at about 11:30 a.m., March 9, 2012, at a business in the 2200 block of 11th Avenue. The second event happened at about 8:10 p.m. the same day at a business in the 2800 block ofEast Quance Street. It is not known if the two events are related, but, in each case an unknown male entered the business through an unlocked back door, normally only used by staff. In the first case, the contents of a purse, including cash, were stolen; in the second case, it appears the suspect rummaged through some items and then left the business when a staff member came into the kitchen area. Both complainants report that the suspect was a middle-aged male, believed to be Caucasian. Both events are under investigation.
These recent events serve as a reminder to examine crime prevention practices, both at home and at work. Locking the back door of a business is good practice, since employees are generally at the front of the store dealing with customers, leaving staff rooms unmonitored. Ensure that employees know when deliveries are expected, so that an intruder isn’t assumed to be a delivery person.
For residents: it is always good practice to lock your door once you have entered your home or apartment. Too many of us leave valuables like purses, wallets and car keys within easy reach just inside the front door. Locking your doors prevents a thief from stepping inside long enough to grab your purse and disappear.
Good crime prevention strategies are an investment that can save so much. Take the initiative to ensure locks are in good working order and take the time to lock doors, both at home and at your place of business.