With an unprecedented rise in retail shoplifting in the GTA and other acts of theft such as pickpocketing, Centennial campuses are similarly experiencing significantly more bicycle/e-bike thefts and locker break-ins. Comparing the first six months of 2023 and 2024, the College community has recorded a 41.7 per cent increase in theft-related incidents – a figure that’s in line with theft activity reported on campuses across the country.
Centennial’s Campus Security teams are working closely to analyze the reported incidents, identify patterns and collaborate closely with our colleagues to implement robust theft prevention strategies. These include space audits for technology, enhancing our presence in high-impact areas, and increasing patrols around these areas. Teams are keeping an eye on lockers and bike parking while patrolling their zones.
Unsecured belongings are sometimes taken away by Security personnel to keep them safe (please check with your campus Security Office). Campus Security is promoting awareness among students and employees about securing their personal items. You can do your part by taking steps to reduce the opportunity for bad actors to access your personal and valuable items.
Vehicle theft prevention
Reports of vehicle-related crimes have been prominent in the news as organized gangs target high-value and popular models for theft. While we strive to create a campus environment welcoming to all, we still need to ensure a resilience to property theft. Here are some vehicle safety tips to keep in mind at both work and home.
- Don’t leave a running vehicle unattended.
- Park in well-lit, high traffic areas.
- Avoid leaving valuables in your vehicle or reduce the temptation by keeping them out of sight.
- Keep your vehicle registration in a secure location; don’t leave originals in your vehicle.
- Avoid fumbling for keys, have your keys in hand before you reach your vehicle.
- Check the interior of your car before entering it.
- Always lock your doors after entering.
- Consider getting an aftermarket vehicle security system.
- Report all incidents and suspicious activity to Campus Security or police.
- For more tips please see the Toronto Police Services website.
Bicycles and eBikes
- Invest in a high-quality lock for your ride.
- Consider using two different types of locks: a U-lock for the front wheel and frame and a heavy-duty cable lock for the rear wheel and frame.
- Select a bicycle rack with at least two points of contact that allow the frame and wheels to both be locked together.
- For added security, take the seat with you if it is fitted with a quick release mechanism.
- Remove the ebike battery, if possible.
- Consider registering your ride with Toronto Police.
Preventing locker thefts
Preventing theft from campus lockers is another way to mitigate the impacts of bad actors. The most common way thieves break into a locker is by manipulating the lock. In most cases, the locker had been secured with a poor-quality lock.
Centennial’s Emergency Management and Public Safety department advises that you use a good quality lock on your locker, such as the Dudley combination-style lock available at the College’s Bookstores and other retail outlets.
Many students share lockers with others, which can work well provided that you know and trust the other person. However, it does also prevent you from having control over who may have access to the combination and the locker.
- Double-check your lock is secure before leaving your locker.
- Do not share your lock combination with others.
- Keep valuables at home unless you absolutely need them. If you have them with you, don’t store them in your locker where they could be stolen. Instead, opt for an inside pocket on your person.
- Pay attention to your surroundings when accessing and using valuables. If possible, find a safe area to access your valuables.
If you witness or are impacted by theft
Report a theft to Campus Security immediately. If you witness or are a victim of a theft on campus, be sure to report it to Campus Security at 416-289-4357 or ext. 52020 from any internal campus phone. If your personal items are stolen, immediately notify local law enforcement. If you have registered your bike, e-bike or scooter, advise them of the registry.
If your mobile device, credit card or personal documents have been stolen, notify your bank or service provider immediately to place a temporary hold or track inappropriate activity on your cards. If your personal documents are stolen, notify any government offices and local law enforcement. Consider changing all passwords to protect sensitive information, such as bank accounts, and ensure other identification cannot be used.
If your vehicle has been stolen, notify police immediately to record the theft and provide a description of your vehicle. Be sure to get a incident report number or general occurrence number. Campus Security will only release evidence or information to police. After placing a police report, contact your insurance provider to advise them of the theft. They may require verification of the incident, such as a police report.
For more public safety tips, please see our website. And please remember to download our helpful Centennial Campus Safety Watch app!