Rural Crime is Rising in Alberta: What Can We Do?

Rural crime is on the rise in Alberta, and for those of us living in rural communities, the impact can be deeply personal. Far from the hustle and bustle of cities, rural areas may feel safe, but they are not immune to crime. The wide-open spaces, fewer neighbors, and a sense of isolation that many cherish about rural life also create opportunities for criminal activity. So, what can we do to protect our homes, families, and communities? The answer lies in community vigilance, proactive measures, and cooperation with local law enforcement.

Know Your Neighbors

One of the most effective ways to combat rural crime is by fostering strong relationships with your neighbors. In rural areas, where homes are often spread out over vast distances, your neighbors are your first line of defense.

• Watch Each Other’s Property: When you’re away, your neighbors can keep an eye on your property, and you can do the same for them. This mutual watchfulness is a powerful deterrent to potential criminals.
• Build Trust: Regular communication with your neighbors helps build a sense of community and trust. When you know who lives nearby, it’s easier to spot when something—or someone—doesn’t belong.

Observe

Awareness is key to preventing crime. By staying alert and paying attention to your surroundings, you can spot unusual activity before it becomes a problem.

• Notice the Unusual: If you know your neighbors, you’ll be able to identify when something is out of place, whether it’s a strange vehicle parked where it shouldn’t be or unfamiliar faces lingering around.
• Be Inquisitive: Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you see someone unfamiliar near your property. A simple conversation can discourage potential criminals and show that your community is vigilant.

Record

If you observe something suspicious, don’t rely on memory alone—document it.

• Details Matter: Write down descriptions of people, vehicles, and activities that seem questionable. Take note of license plate numbers, times, and dates.
• Photos and Videos: If safe to do so, take pictures or videos. This evidence can be crucial for the RCMP in identifying and tracking down suspects.

Report

When in doubt, report suspicious activity to the RCMP. It’s better to make a call and find out it was nothing than to stay silent and risk allowing a crime to occur.

• Let the RCMP Decide: You may think an incident is trivial, but what seems insignificant to you might be the missing piece in a larger investigation. The RCMP is trained to assess and prioritize these reports.
• Act Quickly: The sooner you report suspicious activity, the more likely it is that law enforcement can respond effectively.

Join the South East Alberta Rural Crime Watch Association

If you haven’t already, consider joining the South East Alberta Rural Crime Watch Association (SEABRCWA). Membership offers you more than just peace of mind—it makes you an active participant in protecting your community.

• Stay Informed: As a member, you’ll receive fan-out messages about criminal activity in your area, ensuring you’re always up-to-date on potential threats.
• Engage with Experts: Membership gives you access to meetings with crime prevention, safety, and protection experts, where you can learn more about keeping your property and loved ones safe.
• Show Your Support: Members receive a sign to post on their property, signaling to would-be criminals that your community is organized and vigilant.

For just $25, you can secure a lifetime household membership in SEABRCWA. This small investment helps support the RCMP and strengthens our collective efforts to prevent rural crime.

Additional Steps to Protect Your Property

Beyond community involvement, there are practical steps you can take to safeguard your property:

• Lock Up: Always secure your home, outbuildings, and vehicles, even if you’re only stepping away for a short time.
• Mark Valuables: Engrave your name or license number on your valuables, or use an invisible pen to mark them with information that can only be seen under infrared light. This simple step makes it harder for thieves to claim stolen items as their own.

Together, We Can Make a Difference

Rural crime is a growing concern in Alberta, but by working together, we can create safer, more secure communities. Whether it’s by keeping an eye on your neighbor’s property, reporting suspicious activity, or joining SEABRCWA, every action counts. Remember, the more members we have, the safer our communities will be. Let’s take a stand against rural crime and protect the rural way of life we all cherish.