Personal Safety and Theft Prevention

Personal safety begins with awareness and preparation — at home, at work, on the street, and in your car. This page outlines practical steps to help protect yourself and your belongings in everyday situations, including how to secure your home, stay alert in public spaces, recognize distraction theft tactics, and respond if you feel you are being followed.

If you Think Someone is Following You

Do not drive/walk home as you do not want this person to know where you live; instead, drive or walk to the nearest police station or open service station.

Personal Safety Tips

In Your Home

Avoid opening the door to people you don't know. Learn to respond safely by speaking through a closed and locked door.
Draw all window drapes/shades at night.
Install good locks and use them often.

On the Street

Plan your route and avoid short cuts through vacant lots or unlit areas.
Know where police stations and 24/7 stores are located.
Avoid being alone by getting a friend to accompany you.
If someone tries to take your purse/bag, do not resist. Instead, head to a safe location and immediately call the police. Defend yourself only in the event that you are being physically assaulted.

In the Workplace

Try to avoid empty stairways.
Call security if you see someone you don't recognize in the building.
At night, tell security when you are leaving and have them escort you if you feel unsafe.
If alone, contact your family/friend and let them know you are working late.

In Your Car

Keep your vehicle in good condition with plenty of gas.
Carry an ice scraper and shovel during the winter months.
Park in well-lit areas.
Lock your car after getting in. Avoid lingering around in the parking lot. Drive away as soon as you can.

Distraction Theft

What is a distraction theft?

Distraction theft is a type of crime where an offender deliberately distracts a victim to steal money, wallets, purses, jewelry, phones, or other valuables without the victim immediately noticing.

Unlike a traditional theft, distraction thieves don't rely on force. Instead, they rely on conversation, deception, and trust. They may act friendly, pretend to know you, offer help, ask for directions, or create a distraction to get close to you.

Distracting senior while jewellery is stolen

Who is at risk?

People who are alone
Seniors
People carrying visible valuables
Tourists

How to protect yourself

Follow these tips to mitigate the risk of being a victim:

Be aware of your surroundings
Keep your valuables out-of-sight
Carry only what you need
Use a cross-body bag, zip your bag
Never leave your valuables unattended in a grocery cart
Carry your wallet/phone in your front pocket or inside your cross-body bag
Be cautious of strangers who approach you unexpectedly
Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t
Be careful to accept unsolicited hugging or touching by unfamiliar people

Were you a victim of distraction theft?

File a Police Report Online

Frequently Asked Questions

How is a distraction theft different from a robbery?

A robbery involves force, threats, or violence. A distraction theft relies on deception and/or friendly conversations to distract you while your valuables are stolen.

Who do distraction thieves target?

Anyone can be a victim, but offenders often target seniors, tourists, shoppers, and individuals carrying visible valuables.

Where do distraction thefts usually happen?

Distraction thefts can occur anywhere, but they are commonly reported in:

Shopping centres
Parking lots
Transit stations
Neighbourhoods
Banks and ATMs

What tactics do distraction thieves use?

Common tactics include:

Asking for directions or assistance
Understanding of cultural or religious traditions
Offering unwanted help
Pretending to know you
Creating a commotion or distraction
Touching you under the guise of being friendly

How can I protect myself?

Stay aware of your surroundings.

Keep your purse, wallet, and phone secure.
Keep valuables out of sight.
Be cautious of strangers who are overly friendly or try to get close to you.
Do not allow strangers to touch you or your belongings.
Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

Do distraction thieves work alone?

Not always. Many distraction thefts involve two or more offenders. One person distracts the victim while another steals their valuables.

What should I do if I think something is off?

End the conversation, create distance, and move to a safe area. Keep track of your belongings and be aware to anyone attempting to get unusually close to you.

What should I do if I discover something has been stolen?

Move to a safe location.
Contact police as soon as possible.
Cancel any stolen bank cards or credit cards.
Monitor your financial accounts for unauthorized transactions.
Record any details you remember about the suspect or vehicle involved.