As we move closer to spring, and warmer weather, Portage la Prairie City Councillor Ryan Espey reminds us to be safe.

He's the Public Safety Committee Chair on Council, and points out there's usually an increase in criminal activity as the weather improves. He outlines how you can make your environment more secure.

"People can protect themselves in some pretty simple ways -- just crime prevention through environmental design," he says, "Keep your hedges trimmed, keep your trees trimmed up from the bottom, so there's a clear sight line to the front of your home. Keep everything well-lit."

Espey urges you to take precautions, and one is very simple.

"Lock your doors. That's been a big thing lately, that people have gone around, especially vehicles, checking doors. If they're open, they're gone through, and items taken. And if they're locked, they generally just move on."