Hello again everyone – and it’s a welcome return to the warmer weather. Hopefully we have seen the last of the snow and we can look forward to lots of sunshine in the coming months.
I want to start with some positive news. As you are aware, May 17th marked the International Day against Homophobia and Transphobia. I managed to secure the necessary permissions from the City and Calgary Police Service executive to fly the Pride flag outside headquarters. It was a very proud moment that I shared on Facebook; hopefully many of you will have seen the picture. I think it was the first time that the Pride flag has flown from police premises here in Calgary, so certainly a momentous occasion.
Talking about the warmer weather, many of you may be going on vacation or leaving your homes for other reasons and I wanted to take the time to pass on some safety tips that will give you peace of mind, knowing that your home will be safe upon your return.
Make your home look lived-in while you’re away
• Arrange to have your mail picked up and consider stopping newspaper delivery at least one day before you leave to be certain your request was received.
• Arrange to have the grass cut, the leaves raked or the snow removed as necessary.
• Use timers on a few lamps in rooms where the light will be noticed from outside the house.
• Have a neighbour check both inside and outside the house every few days. Ask them to pick up items delivered to you while you are away.
• If you have a clearly designated outside parking space (as is the case in many townhouse neighbourhoods), ask a neighbour to park their car in your space.
• Tell a neighbour you’re going away. Also remember to keep an eye on your neighbours’ house as well. Notify the police if you see anything suspicious.
You also want to be sure to stay safe when you’re out of town or overseas. Reduce your chance of being a victim of crime while traveling with these tips:
• Use a reputable travel agent who knows your destination and can ensure you are staying in a reputable hotel.
• Leave the name, room number, and contact information of your hotel with family or friends at home. If camping, leave directions to the campground, along with your site number. It is also advisable to leave a map of your route and any stops you plan to take.
• Once at your hotel, place your valuables in the hotel safe.
• Report any lost or stolen items to the management and to the police.
• Avoid hotels that use keys, as they can be easily duplicated. Only stay at hotels that use coded cards.
• Close your room door securely and only admit people you are expecting. If you are unsure about the identity of someone who claims to be a hotel employee, call the front desk and inquire.
• Check to see that any sliding glass doors or windows and any connecting doors are locked.
• Use all of the locking devices provided (chain, deadbolt, etc.).
• Use the main entrance if returning to your room late in the evening.
• Ask the management for directions to locations you will be visiting, if there are areas you should avoid, and for recommendations on reliable taxis or tour guides.
• If you see any suspicious activity report it to hotel management.
Unfortunately I will not be able to attend the ARGRA event in Strathmore this year, as I will be in Toronto for a conference and World Pride, although I can assure you that CPS will still be represented. Good luck to everyone who is competing but, more importantly, have fun and stay safe.
Look after each other, and I will talk to you next month.
