Calgary police warn of surge in overnight break-ins while homeowners are asleep

Calgary police are warning residents of a surge in break-and-enters in the city that are occurring overnight while homeowners are asleep.

In a Monday release, police say they have heard from more than 30 people in the last several weeks whose homes were broken into.

Police add that most of the break-and-enters occurred between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. while residents were at home sleeping.

“In many instances it is believed the thieves have entered homes by cutting through the screens of unlocked windows, and in some cases, gained entry through unlocked doors,” reads the CPS release.

It is alleged the suspects would often take vehicle keys once inside the homes. Police say more than 20 vehicles have been stolen in connection with the break-ins.

The suspects have also taken other valuables from people’s homes, including purses, wallets, and small electronics.

Anyone with information is being asked to call police at 403-266-1234, or submit tips anonymously to CrimeStoppers.

Calgary police are out with the following tips to help protect residents from the would-be thieves:

• Lock all windows and doors – even when you are home.
• Keep valuables (purses, car keys, wallets) away from the front door. Do not leave spare keys in an obvious spot.
• Consider using a safe for valuables and important documents. Keep the safe in a well-hidden area.
• Close your blinds to prevent people from looking inside your home.
• Install motion-activated or timed lights (smart light bulbs).
• Have secure, lockable basement windows.
• Create a nightly routine for your household (for example, make sure the last person to bed checks that windows, doors and vehicle(s) are locked).
• Lock your gates.
• Alarm systems can provide a great deterrent; however, police need evidence of the offender to locate and charge them. Consider installing security and/or doorbell cameras.

More information on how to protect from break-ins can be found here.