Enjoying the blossom-scented breeze? It may come with a risk if your doors and windows stay open when you’re not at home.
The Vancouver police issued a warning today to remind residents to lock their windows and doors despite the rise in spring temperatures in an effort “not to invite thieves into their homes.”
According to the Vancouver Police Department, they typically record an increase in residential break-ins at houses, townhomes, basement suits and apartments as spring weather brings warmer temperatures.
“Many of the break-ins investigated during the spring and summer show no signs of forced entry, indicating crooks simply gained access through unlocked or open doors and windows,” the police warned in a public announcement.
In the past six months even as Vancouverites barricaded inside from intermittent snow and endless rain, 13 per cent of reported break-ins showed no signs of forced entry. There were roughly 1,000 break-ins in that period, according to the VPD.
The police suggest a lack of forced entry means thieves could have entered through an open door or window, including some above ground.
“Something as simple as making sure your windows and doors are locked can stop a thief,” said VPD spokesman Jason Doucette.
