Rising temperatures may make conditions more comfortable for anyone planning to break into your home, which is why Altona police Chief Perry Batchelor reminds the public to take basic safety precautions whenever possible.

Chief Batchelor said summer crime prevention can be as simple as locking the front door when you are gardening in the backyard or removing valuable items from vehicles when you are away.

Since summer is a popular time for vacationing and camping Chief Batchelor also advises the public to avoid posting about it on social media to prevent break-ins.

“It’s never a good idea to post on Facebook that you’re going to be away on the weekend… you don’t want to provide [the public] with any information indicating that you’re not at your residence,” he said.

While crime rates are lower in Altona this year, Chief Batchelor urges the community to keep a watchful eye on potential lawbreaking, including door-to-door canvassers.

Batchelor said the Altona police service has received complaints of individuals going door-to-door in the Altona and Plum Coulee area, and scamming homeowners out of money for false causes. In a case such as this Batchelor suggests closing the door on anyone who makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

Another thing the police chief reminds the public of is wearing a bicycle helmet that fits properly. This means the ideal fitting helmet sits two fingers above the eyebrow line, the straps form a “V” under the ears, and one finger can fit between the chin and the buckle.

With these reminders, Chief Batchelor said he hopes the Town of Altona can continue to lower its crime rates.

“The best way to make sure you’re not victimized is by starting with your own security,” he said.