Southern Alberta RCMP see spike in overnight residential break-ins

RCMP are warning residents who live in the communities surrounding Calgary about an increase in residential break-and-enters. (Sean McClune/CTV News Edmonton)

RCMP are warning residents who live in the communities surrounding Calgary about an increase in residential break-and-enters.

Police say the crimes tend to occur between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. while victims are asleep.

“Suspects are entering the homes through unlocked sliding doors, unlocked windows and by cutting screens,” RCMP warned in a Wednesday news release. “Once inside, the suspects are stealing purses, small electronics and vehicle keys. Vehicles on the street and inside garages have been stolen in some cases.”

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RCMP are asking homeowners to take the following precautions to protect themselves:

• Add pin locks to sliding doors or ground-level windows. Pin locks prevent doors/windows from being lifted out of their tracks;
• Keep keys, wallets and purses out of sight, especially away from entry points and windows;
• Consider installing home security cameras and motion-activated or timed lights;
• Keep shrubs, trees and hedges below window level to eliminate areas of concealment;
• Install pry guards on front, side and garage doors to help reduce the chance of forced entry; and,
• Lock main doors to garages, fences and gates.

Break-and-enters can be reported to local police departments, or can also be reported anonymously through Crime Stoppers.