Many people operate under the assumption that concerns for personal safety apply only to someone who is away from the comfort of his or her home. A person should not take anything for granted when it comes to their safety.
IT’S IMPORTANT TO BE AWARE OF YOUR PERSONAL SAFETY IN ALL SITUATIONS, INCLUDING THE HOME
• Keep doors and windows secure at all times.
• Only open the door when it is safe to do so.
SERVICE AND DELIVERY PEOPLE
• Place a peephole in the door.
• Verify person’s reason for attendance.
• Ask for proper identification.
• Consider contacting the organization/company to confirm/verify delivery time.
• Consider contacting the organization/company to schedule an appointment.
• Be sure to utilize reputable and reliable companies.
STRANGERS AT THE DOOR
• It is common practice for a burglar to knock first to see if anyone is home.
• Verify the persons reason for attendance.
• If you are uncomfortable with their attendance, stay calm and tell them to leave.
• If they refuse to leave advise them that you are calling police.
APARTMENT/CONDO SAFETY
Remember the front door of your apartment/condo block is the front door of your residence.
• Never allow anyone that you do not know into the building.
• Lock/secure doors, windows and lockers.
• Do not identify yourself on the call board.
• Do not enter an elevator if you are suspicious of the occupants.
• Report suspicious people loitering.
TELEPHONE SAFETY
Be cautious when speaking to someone on the phone, as you cannot confirm their true identity. They could be a fraudster.
• If a caller refuses to identify him or herself to you – hang up.
• Do not give out any personal information to anyone. This includes credit card or banking info.
• Do not divulge that you are home alone.
• If you are receiving annoying or harassing telephone calls, hang up and activate the call trace feature (*57). Document the date, time and nature of the calls and assemble a record of calls before contacting the police.
• Notify the police immediately if the calls are threatening in nature.
SAFETY TIPS TO REMEMBER
• Keep sightlines clear – trim trees and shrubs to prevent a place to hide.
• Lighting can be an effective deterrent for criminals:
? use motion lights on the exterior
? use timers inside your home to give appearance someone is home
• Change locks upon moving into a new residence.
• Keep doors locked even when you are home or in your yard.
• Include children in your safety plan.
• Get to know your neighbours.
• Be aware of suspicious activity and look out for each other.
Trust your instincts!
Connect with your
Community Relations Officers
To book a presentation, request officers
attend an event, or for more information:
204-986-6322
Winnipeg.ca/TakeAction
Make the Right Call
Emergency: 911
Non-Emergency: 204-986-6222
Report a Crime Online: Winnipeg.ca/police
More information about personal and in-house safety,
visit www.winnipeg.ca/police