Suburban – Suburban Staff – June 16, 1993
Summer is here, and many residents turn their thoughts to vacations and travelling. The only problem is what to do with the home being left behind, and what unforseen dangers could there be while on the road?
These are some of the concerns that will be covered at a seminar 10:30 Sunday moming, June 20, at the Prohome store at the Cote S1. Luc shopping centre on Cote S1. Luc Rd.
The seminar is being given by Police Station 15’s constable George Manoli, who over the years, has developed safety and security courses for residents and travellers.
A lot of what Const. Manoli teaches deals with the small details that can discourage burglars and thieves. Such details can range from turning down the volume of the phone bell so burglars can’t know the resident is not there to answer it, to having your neighbour park his car in your driveway.
One thing few people do these days is notify police when they leave. Often, residents believe that is asking too much of the police.
But few realize that if police see something unusual at a house, the fact they have been informed the resident is away is enough to give them cause to quickly investigate.
Other tips Const. Manoli offers is what to do just before leaving on the vacation. He advises not to pack the car the night before leaving.
« Place your baggage, cameras and whatever else you’re taking in the car just before departure. It’s much easier to break into a car than into a home, » he said.
When on the road with a car, many people believe it is safer to stay in the car if it breaks down, but Const. Manoli is not so sure.
« If you are on a busy freeway and there is no room to park off the road, get out of that car and away from danger. If you are on a lonely road, especially at night, get out. »
He said that motorist in the latter circumstance should hide in the woods until help arrives.
« Some’one will come along after a while, stop and take a look. While they’re doing that, you take a look at them. If you’re outside the car, you get to choose who helps you. If you’re inside your car, your helper gets to choose you. »