RCMP encouraging citizens to follow nightly routine to reduce rural crime

Everyone has a nightly routine, but Alberta RCMP wants to add a few more items to the list.

Alberta RCMP has been sending nightly notifications on their social media accounts to remind citizens to follow the #9PMRoutine, which encourages people to lock up their property and protect against crime.

The #9PMRoutine is a movement that is supported by police forces across the world.

The RCMP say that property crimes are often crimes of opportunity and small things like locking doors and turning on lights can deter criminals.

Last summer (June to August 2018) there were close to 36,000 property-related incidents in RCMP jurisdiction and almost 50 per cent of all reported bicycle thefts occurred in the summer months.

They suggest these ideas to include in your 9 p.m. routine:

• Turn on outside lights at night
• Lock your doors
• Put away toys and bikes in a locked, safe location
• Put away tools when you’re finished with them
• Put away outdoor equipment such as lawn mowers and weed trimmers
• Lock up off-highway vehicles (ATVs, dirt bikes, etc.)
• Double check vehicles are locked and keys are removed

Alberta RCMP will be posting on their social media accounts every night for two full months to help form the habit.

“By remembering to lock up and secure your property, you’re helping to create a safer Alberta,” the press release said.

They suggest using #9PMRoutine and following their social media accounts on Twitter (@RCMPAlberta) and Facebook (@RCMPinAlberta).

If you see something suspicious, report it to your local police service. If you see a crime in progress, call 911. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.