The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is issuing a timely warning to residents as the holiday season approaches: be extremely careful about what you leave at the curb for garbage or recycling collection. The items you discard can inadvertently signal to criminals that you are away from home or that you have new, valuable goods inside, potentially making your property a target for theft.
The Unseen Risk at Your Curb
While putting out the trash is a routine chore, police emphasize that it carries a significant security risk. Boxes for expensive electronics, such as new televisions, gaming consoles, or computers, clearly advertise recent high-value purchases. Similarly, an overflowing bin or an unusual amount of packaging during a week when many are traveling can be a clear indicator that a home is unoccupied.
The OPP advises residents to break down all cardboard boxes, turning them inside out to obscure branding and logos. If possible, these boxes should be placed inside recycling bins or bags rather than left neatly stacked beside them. For larger items, consider taking them directly to a waste disposal facility or scheduling a special pickup that doesn't require them to sit at the curb for an extended period.
Integrating Security into Your Routine
This warning extends beyond just packaging. The overall appearance of your property while you're away is crucial. Police recommend using timers for lights, asking a trusted neighbor to collect mail and flyers, and arranging for snow removal to maintain a lived-in look. Simply pausing mail delivery and ensuring someone regularly checks your property can be powerful deterrents.
The OPP suggests coordinating with neighbors to create a community watch effect, especially during peak travel periods like the Christmas and New Year holidays. Letting a neighbor know your travel plans allows them to watch for suspicious activity and to place their own garbage at your curb on collection day to maintain normalcy.
A Proactive Approach to Prevention
This advisory is part of a broader crime prevention strategy. Law enforcement notes that opportunistic thieves often scout neighborhoods on garbage and recycling days, looking for easy targets. By eliminating these visual cues, homeowners take a proactive step in securing their property.
The core message from the OPP is that home security begins with mindfulness in everyday activities. Something as simple as how you handle your trash can be a critical factor in preventing a break-in. As families prepare for holiday gatherings and travel, taking a few extra minutes to manage curb-side waste discreetly is a simple yet effective security measure.
Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity in their neighborhoods immediately to their local police service or the OPP. Staying vigilant and adopting these practical tips can help ensure a safe and secure holiday season for all communities across Ontario.
