Between August 7 and 14 the Regina Police Service (RPS) responded to 23 reported garage break and enters. Once again, the RPS is encouraging residents to lock garages doors and shed, and remove garage door openers from cars parked on the street or driveways.
The police said they encounter ongoing issues of thieves gaining access through unlocked and unsecured doors. As of June 28, police say 363 garage break-ins had been reported to police in 2018.
Since June 28, there have been 123 more garage break-ins. As of August 17, Regina police have recorded 486 garage or shed break-ins. That represents an 11.5 per cent increase over the same time period last year.
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“It can be an easy target, and it can be a very fruitful target, so it’s worth the attempt for a lot of people, so it’s worth preventing,” RPS spokesperson Les Parker said.
“Look at it through a thief’s eyes, how would I enter this garage and that might help you shore up any security needs.”
In addition to securing all doors and removing garage door openers from vehicles, police are encouraging residents to assess the condition of garage doors. The RPS pointed to the fact that a weak or damaged door can easily be forced open by an intruder.
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The RPS also recommend installing motion sensor lights near driveways/doors.
Nu-Fab Building Products specializes in garages, and general manager Jason Moldenhauer had a few other suggestions for ways to better secure a garage.
“A couple things you can do is look at replacing your walk-in door with an out-swing door, less likelihood to be kicked in by someone that’s trying to steal your stuff out of your garage,” he said. “You can zip-tie your emergency break for your overhead door so they don’t jimmy that to get your door open. Little things like that. ”
Like the police, Modlenhauer also said little things like a lock can help deter thieves. He recommends a padlock or deadbolt depending on the type of door.
The police say that crime prevention is a community effort, and ask that anyone who sees suspicious activity call the RPS at 306-777-6500. If see see a crime in progress call 911.
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