Comox Valley - Top 8 Tips Learned From '08

1.    Lock Out Identity Theft

 Statistics show there is a strong link between identity theft and theft from auto. Thieves are no longer just after your iPod, they’re after your identity. Protect your personal information, check your credit records and account activity regularly, and don’t leave valuables in your car.

 2.    Scam Proof Your Life

The predicted economic down turn could provide more incentives for fraudsters to come up with new ways to rip you off. Check the websites, listed below, for the latest scams. Get informed and get protected.

Better Business Bureau of Vancouver Island
Website:  http://vi.bbb.org

Phone:   250-386-6348

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Phonebusters

Website:  http://www.phonebusters.com/

Phone (toll free): 1-888-495-8501

 3.    Pay Attention to Good Kids

Everyone has heard stories about kids causing trouble, but the fact is there are a lot of good kids in every community and they deserve the spotlight. Take the time to notice what they are doing, and make sure they see you looking.

 4.    Use Your Road Sense

What do drug and alcohol impairment, lack of seatbelts, and aggressive driving have in common? They are all leading causes of death and injury on our roads…and they are 100% preventable. Use your road sense.

 5.    If You See Something, Say Something

Public safety is everyone’s responsibility and one of the easiest ways to do your part is by speaking up about what you know. You may have the missing piece of a puzzle and not even know it. Learn more about reporting what you see through our local Crime Stoppers program.

 6.    Get Connected

A close-knit community is a safe community. Get out of your house, get to know your neighbors and consider getting involved in public safety by volunteering in your community.

 7.    Don’t be Scared, be Prepared

With the recent extreme weather now is the perfect time to plan ahead and make sure you and your loved ones are prepared for any emergency. Make sure you have the equipment, supplies and skills to stay safe. Check out the Provincial Emergency Program website for more information: http://www.pep.bc.ca/index.html

 8.    Practice Safe ‘Net’

Computers are a huge part of everyday life…not just for law-abiding citizens, also for criminals. Protect yourself and your family by making sure your security software is up-to-date, being a smart consumer, and taking steps to protect your identity online.

Comox Valley RCMP continues their commitment

to Safer Homes and Safer Communities.