Home security systems on rise

FORT FRANCES—Given a recent rash of break-ins here, more and more Fort Frances residents are arming their homes with security systems—and thinking twice about leaving their doors unlocked.
Over the past seven months, there have been 73 reported break-ins in town, 50 of which remain unsolved, Fort Frances OPP Sgt. Don Robertson noted Tuesday.
As a result, home security system sales have increased by 75 percent since June, noted Dan DeGagné, owner of Sunset Lock and Security here.
He said people are becoming increasingly aware that they are literally inviting someone into their home by not locking the doors.
“Some of my customers didn’t even have keys to their doors until last week,” DeGagné added.
Local locksmith Ken Rogoza agreed home security system inquiries, and installations, have been keeping him busy since June.
Rogoza, who’s been installing systems across the district for more than 25 years, said he’s never seen such a rash of break-ins like this here before.
DeGagné figured only about 200 homes in Rainy River District are equipped with alarm systems, which is well below the national average for communities.
Meanwhile, the majority of local break-ins have occurred primarily east of Portage Avenue, with the latest being reported July 25.
“The OPP Crime Unit is actively pursuing all developments as they come in to try and solve these cases,” Sgt. Robertson said.
Home security systems not only protect homes from break-ins, but can provide homeowners with a lot of other benefits, DeGagné stressed.
“People don’t realize that a system can provide them with a good insurance break, and it can provide them with a piece of mind while travelling,” he remarked.
Sgt. Robertson said the OPP would like to remind residents to continue locking up their valuables inside their homes, garages, and vehicles.
The OPP also encourages the public to become aware of the many easy ways to help crime-proof yourself and your family.
Take the time—and the necessary steps—that reduce the opportunity for crime such as locking up your possessions, using and maintaining exterior motion lights, and informing a neighbour to keep a watch over your property if you’re going to be away.
Most importantly, if you realize you have been a victim of a break-and-enter, call the OPP immediately at 1-888-310-1122, do not touch anything, and allow the officers to complete their investigation.
(Fort Frances Times)