With winter just around the corner, Halifax District RCMP is reminding residents to protect their snow removal equipment from would-be thieves.
Every year police receive complaints from home and business owners who have been targeted by thieves. Snow blowers left in the yard or in an unlocked shed, become an easy target. Companies that utilize or sell snow removal equipment are also victimized by criminals who are looking for opportunities to steal snow plows, snow blowers and salt spreaders, often selling them online.
"There are ways to reduce your chances of becoming a victim of theft," says Cpl. Dal Hutchinson, Halifax District RCMP. "Photograph it, mark it and secure your snow removal equipment."
Mark it
- Engrave equipment with serial numbers in a discreet location.
Document it
- Photograph equipment and record serial numbers.
Secure it
- Store equipment in a well-lit, secured and locked location.
- Keep plows attached to trucks.
- Take the keys with you when you are out of the truck.
- Keep keys for vehicles attached to equipment in a separate location.
- Display signs that indicate your property is monitored by video surveillance and GPS systems.
- Check on property daily and report theft or suspicious activity immediately.
Anyone with information regarding thefts of snow removal equipment is asked to call Halifax District RCMP at 902-490-5020. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you can also contact Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or text TIP202 + your message to 'CRIMES' (274637) or submit tips by Secure Web Tips at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca. Calls to Crime Stoppers are not taped or traced and if police make an arrest and lay charges based on a tip, callers qualify for a cash award.