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Mission RCMP report 20 problem houses shut down last year

Mission Fire/Rescue Service and local Mounties collaborated to close dangerous residences
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A coordinated effort by Mission's police and fire departments helped shut down 20 problem houses in 2011.

Mission RCMP are now asking the public to do its part and report suspected problem houses.

Despite last year's successes, there were still injuries in these unsafe residences, said RCMP Cpl. Sharon Siluch.

Problem houses — sometimes referred to as “flop houses” or “crack shacks” — often become havens for illegal activity such as illicit drug use, trafficking and property crime.

Aside from criminal activity, persons living in these problem houses face risks involving personal safety and health, including structural inadequacies, electrical deficiencies and the accumulation of mold and mildew.

“Over the past 12 months, three problem houses have burned down and two other residences have been the scene of explosions, resulting in serious injuries,” said Siluch.

Since the beginning of 2011, local RCMP and the Mission Crime Prevention Office have met monthly with property owners and landlords to educate and share information on what is taking place on their properties.

To learn more on how to record and report suspicious activity, visit www.mission.rcmp.gc.ca.

Also, for more information on the Crime Free Multi-Housing Program and the Landlord Tenancy Act, visit www.bccpa.org.

To report suspicious activity or crimes, call 604-826-7161, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).