Home Security Unit

The Home Security Unit of the New Westminster Police Service strives to inform and assist local residents with preventive measures regarding tips about security and safety around their residence. Any New Westminster Resident can call for a free security audit.

Regardless if you live in an apartment, townhouse, or single family home (rental or owned), by working together, neighbours can increase the safety and security of their homes and neighbourhood.

Doors and windows are the typical points of access, so security measures should be focused on these areas:

• Install deadbolt locks with 2.5cm or 1" throw on all exterior doors
• Use 3" screws in hinges and striker plates
• Exterior doors should be of solid core construction and include a wide-angle eyeviewer
• Pay special attention to sliding glass doors by installing anti-lift devices, pin locks, security film, or auxiliary locks
• Place a length of doweling in the lower track between the door/window and frame
• When selecting window protection, particularly bars, ensure windows can still be opened in case of fire
• Doors must allow people unrestricted exit from a building. Doors with double cylinder locks (keyed both sides) are not permitted by the Fire Commissioner's Office

Lighting is an important aspect to home security. Thieves don't like to be seen, consider the following:

• All entranceways and windows should be well lit all night
• Use motion or photosensitive timers on exterior lights
• Mount lights out of reach so they can't be tampered with.

Landscaping can enhance security without losing privacy.

• Trim shrubbery down so it is no higher than three feet and trees up to six feet off the ground to allow visibility of doors and windows from the street
• Fencing defines your property, but ensure it does not provide cover for criminals
• Shrubbery that is maintained can provide property line distinctions or a perimeter for your property

Additional tips to make your home a hard target:

• Sheds can be targeted as they have less adequate locks compared to homes. Ensure you have adequate locks and consider an alarm for your shed
• Store tools and ladders in a locked shred or garage to prevent use by thieves
• Consider a home alarm and place stickers on windows and doors
• Get to know your neighbours, their habits and schedules
• Mark your property (see Property Identification)

Apartment buildings (rental or owned) differ from houses in various ways. Here are some strategies:

• Do not put salutation or first name on the intercom panel or mailbox
• Do not admit anyone you don't know to your building, this includes holding the door for someone as a gesture of politeness
• Do not store valuables in storage lockers
• Wait for the gate to close when entering or leaving the parking garage

Property Identification

An important part of home security is property identification. Property identification makes it easier for the police to return your property. Be prepared…

• Make a complete and detailed list of all of your possessions
• Record serial numbers of all appliances and electronics
• Mark your possessions with your driver's licence number and province using Securitags™™ or an engraver
• Photograph or video your possessions. It is helpful in recovery and with insurance
• Do not store valuables in one place, particularly in your bedroom. Keep valuables and documents in a safety deposit box

Crime prevention is a community effort. Become involved in one of these crime prevention programs:

• Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED)
• For rental properties, including apartments and townhouses, consider joining Crime Free Multi Housing (CFMH)
• For owned or strata properties, consider joining Block Watch

Interactive HOUSE (Coming Soon)