The RCMP is conducting ATV patrols in the evacuation zone in Conception Bay North to help detect and deter criminal activity.

There have been reports of criminals taking advantage of the evacuation order to break into and loot evacuated buildings.

RCMP confirm that some stolen property has already been recovered.

Frustrating for many home owners who are already feeling the stress of the fire evacuation, is knowing they can’t check on their property.

RCMP say it’s important, for safety’s sake, not to enter the evacuation zones, so they are conducting dedicated ATV patrols to check for suspicious or criminal activity and to ensure that people aren’t going where they’re not supposed to be.

The ATV patrols are taking place in addition to police road patrols on a 7 day a week, 24 hour a day basis.