Rash of break-ins prompts warning from Calgary Police

CALGARY- Police are growing concerned about a huge number of break-ins that have happened in south Calgary over the past two months.

102 house and garage break-ins have been reported since March 1, including 65 that happened at night time.

It’s especially concerning because half the cases involved suspects entering the home through an unlocked door, or getting into an unlocked vehicle then using a garage door opener to access the house.

The most recent case happened around 3:30 a.m. on Friday in Canyon Meadows. Police believe the thief found a house key inside an unlocked van, then got inside the house and stole several more keys, including one to a black SUV. The family, which was sleeping inside, woke up to hear a dog barking and the sound of a vehicle outside.

Their SUV has since been recovered.

Police say they have seen a high number of break-ins in the following areas:

• Canyon Meadows
• Queensland
• Evergreen
• McKenzie Towne
• New Brighton
• Cranston
• Chaparral

Anyone with information about the thefts is asked to call police or Crime Stoppers.

Homeowners are also encourage to take the following precautions:

• Ensure all vehicles are locked, with the windows up.
• Hide or preferably remove all valuables, keys, garage door openers and other property from unattended vehicles.
• Ensure all home and garage doors, patio doors and windows are secured even when you are home, day or night. This includes second-storey windows.
• Develop a routine to make sure the garage doors have been closed and secured after a day of gardening or bike riding. Don’t drive away from your home until you’ve seen the garage door close completely. Check all vehicles, doors and windows before turning in for the night.
• Consider installing home and vehicle alarm systems and vehicle anti-theft devices.
• Let your neighbours know if they’ve left doors open or vehicles unlocked.