Graffiti affects us all, it can degrade a neighbourhood and can have both negative economic and psychological effects on residents and business ownerssaid S/Sgt Damon Werrell, NCO i/c Dawson Creek RCMP. It can result in damage to property and is considered a serious matter by the Dawson Creek RCMP.

What to do about graffiti to your home or business:

The key to controlling graffiti is rapid and consistent removal. The removal takes away notoriety gained by the graffiti vandal and sends a message that their activities will not be tolerated. In some cases, graffiti may need to be removed from the same spot a number of times in order to discourage the vandal. Studies have shown that graffiti tags left up almost always attract more graffiti and other crime to the area.Consider using graffiti resilient paints and products the next time you update the exterior of your home or business.Install video surveillance or motion sensor lights in vulnerable areas. Report graffiti to the police or make a report using Online Crime Reporting Tool

You can potentially avoid becoming a victim of graffiti by adding motion-enabled lighting to dark areas and using a graffiti-resistant paint on easily accessible walls.

The Dawson Creek RCMP want to remind those responsible that graffiti and other vandalism is a criminal offence and encourages the public to call and report suspicious activity.

Anyone with information on this or any other offence is asked to call the Dawson Creek RCMP at 250 784-3700 or Crime Stoppers at 1 800 222-8477.