There are many simple things we all do to make our community safer, like paying attention to speed limits around the neighbourhood and locking doors at night. Below are some other types of crime, and if you notice any of the signs listed here, don't hesitate to report crime in your neighbourhood to police and make your community a safer place to live.
Drug Trafficking
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Look out for these signs of drug trafficking in your community:
- Windows covered up, condensation on glass, neglected lawns and gardens
- Bright lights escaping covered windows, basement lights on all day
- Suspicious vehicles arriving and departing during the night
Look out for these signs of street-level drug dealing in your community:
- Vehicles parked together in odd places and/or at times
- Vehicles with tinted windows idling in an empty parking lot for an extended period of time
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Domestic Violence
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Look out for these signs of domestic violence involving someone you know:
- Someone who has stopped communicating with you because of a controlling partner
- Unexplained bruises, cuts or scratches
- Depression caused by someone's relationship
Look out for these signs that you may be at risk of domestic violence:
- Your partner has isolated you from friends, family, and/or personal property, like a cellphone
- Your partner has threatened you or your family, or is jealous/obsessive over you
- You or your partner grew up in a violent environment, or have a history of domestic violence
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Hate Crime
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Hate crimes are motivated by a suspect's hate, bias or prejudice toward someone's:
- Race, colour or national or ethnic origin
- Mental or physical disability
- Age, gender or sexual orientation
- Language
Hate crimes committed in your community may include:
- Physical assault
- Vandalism or damage caused to personal or religious property
- Threats, verbal slurs, hateful language or hate propaganda
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Property Theft
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Look out for these signs of shoplifting at stores in your community:
- People placing items in baggy clothing while shopping, or wearing jackets in warm weather
- Heavily-discounted brand name items for sale at questionable outlets,
Look out for indicators of residential break and enters in your community:
- Doors to homes that have been left open, or may have been forced open
- Individuals or groups of people knocking on doors to check if homeowners are away
- Unfamiliar vehicles parked outside neighbours' homes while they are away
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Seasonal Crimes
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Look out for these signs of criminals in your community this winter:
- People you don't recognize lingering around a neighbour's, or your own idling car while it warms up
- Suspicious people walking up and down driveways at night
Take these precautions to protect yourself and your valuables from criminals:
- LOCK IT OR LOSE IT - Lock your parked car in the driveway, parking lots and even inside your garage
- DON'T STAND IDLE - Do not leave your car to warm up in your driveway while you wait inside your house
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Street-Level Robberies
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Take these steps to protect yourself against street-level robberies:
- Be aware of your surroundings and conceal valuables like jewelry or cellphones while in public
- Keep zippers closed and pockets buttoned
- Be wary of strangers trying to get close to you. Protect your personal space
If you are the victim of a robbery:
- Cooperate and remember everything you can about the offender - be the best witness you can be
- Call 911
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