Letter to the editor
This past year many residents of Brisco, Spillimacheen and other areas of the Columbia Valley have been victimized by burglars who are able to commit crimes of opportunity.
The opportunity to commit these crimes is the result of residents leaving items of value out in the open around their property, thereby making it easier for the burglars. Residents should keep these items in sturdy sheds and garages with good quality locks. Items of interest to thieves might include the following:
• winter and summer tires
• unlocked vehicles (sometimes with the keys in the ignition or under the driver’s seat)
• ladders and scaffolding
• lawnmowers, lawn trimmers and other gardening tools
• bicycles, paddleboards and other recreational gear
Where possible residents should keep any items of value locked up.
If you become aware of a person or persons unknown to you on your property, then you should immediately call the RCMP at 911. If the event is taking place at night, then turn the indoor and outdoor lights on.
For your safety do not try to engage with the culprits. Always locking your house and garage doors and having outside motion detector lights is also a good idea. If you are suspicious of an unfamiliar vehicle driving slowly around the neighbourhood, then report it to the RCMP with a licence plate number if possible.
If any residents are interested in creating a Neighbourhood Watch system, they can contact the RCMP in Invermere at 250-342-9292 or Golden at 250-344-2221 for assistance.
Jim Galloway, Brisco
