Graffiti is the unauthorized defacement of public or private property by etching, drawing, scratching or painting words or symbols. As with most forms of vandalism, graffiti is not routinely reported to police.

Because it isn't routinely reported, the true scope of graffiti is unknown. What is known is that graffiti tags left alone can quickly transform the feel of a neighbourhood; giving the sense that no one is in control and that disorderly conduct is tolerated. Prevention and quick response are the best approaches.

DID YOU KNOW...

...that graffiti is different from public mural projects? 

Grafifiti suggests that the citizens who live in the neighborhood do not care or are not able to cope with the problem. That's why it is important for individual property owners to take ownership of this issue and act fast to remove graffiti.

...that quick clean-up by property owners reduces the chance that "taggers" will return?

The point of graffiti tagging is to leave a visible mark.  Research shows that taggers don't return to locations where they know their tags won't be allowed to stick around.

...that graffiti clean-up resources are available in your community?

If a hydro box, telephone pole, mail box or city property in your neighbourhood has been the target of graffiti, please contact the appropriate agency for assistance. Many corporations will arange to clean up their property once made aware of vandalism.

PROTECT YOURSELF...PROTECT YOUR COMMUNITY

• Remove graffiti within 24 hours to send a clear message that tagging is not tolerated on your property.
• Consider using graffiti resilient paints and products the next time you update the exterior of your home or business.
• Install video surveillance or put sprinklers on a motion sensor in vulnerabel areas.
• Get involved in graffiti paint-outs, community mural projects and neighbourhood clean-up days in your area.
• Contact your local Community Police Station to find out how CPTED (i.e., Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) can help protect your home or business from graffiti and other property crime.

• Ignore the problem. As a property owner, geting rid of graffiti is your responsibility.  And research shows that leaving graffiti in place will only attract more graffiti.
• Underestimate the impact. Between public agencies like school boards and municipal governments and private property owners and businesses, graffiti clean-up costs your community hundreds of thousands of dollars each year.  And the longer it is left alone, the more likely that future costs will include increased crime as taggers and vandals get comfortable.

IF YOU SEE SOMETHING...SAY SOMETHING!

Public safety is everyone's responsibility—not just the police.  The easiest way for you to have an impact on public safety is by getting connected to your neighbourhood, paying attention to what is going on and letting the police know about criminal or suspicious activity. Learn more about reporting criminal and suspicious activity to the Coquitlam RCMP.