Although Abbotsford has seen an overall 11 per cent decline in break-and-enters over the last three years, police are concerned about an increase during the summer months.
Const. Ian MacDonald said, since 2009, the number of break-ins has gone up by 13.5 per cent in the months of June, July and August.
He said 36 per cent of those involve homes with unlocked doors or windows, and the majority have occurred during daytime hours.
Often nothing is taken, despite the fact that electronics, jewelry, cash and tools are among the most popular items stolen by thieves.
“The suspect gains entry into your home and violates your sense of security, but sometimes doesn’t find what he is looking for on that day,” MacDonald said.
He said the hardest hit areas are where there are the largest concentrations of people, meaning that thieves are trying doors and windows in high-density areas where minimal effort is required to gain entry.
Among the tips suggested by police are:
n use deadbolt locks and window/sliding door lock pins;
n give your home the appearance that you are there when you’re not by using timer lights, exterior motion-detecting lights and having a neighbour park a vehicle in your driveway;
n make sure your garage door is completely locked;
n keep valuables hidden – a set of car keys, portable electronics, cash and ID left close to a window can attract a thief; and
n do not advertise your absence on social media sites such as Facebook.
For more tips, visit abbypd.ca or to view an informational video on the topic, visit youtube.com and search “APD-Summer B & E Stats.”