The arrival of summer brings opportunities for criminals to prey on properties left unprotected by unlocked doors and windows. RCMP in Chilliwack are reminding residents to protect their property by always keeping windows and doors locked.
This reminder comes after a call was received by the police on June 4, 2016 from a resident in the 8900 block of Edward Street to report their automobile keys missing and loose change as well as property stolen from her vehicle.
Police attended the residence located in the 8900 block of Edward Street to investigate and determined the vehicle’s key was likely taken by someone who walked through the unlocked front door.
Doors and windows are often left unsecured in the heat to lower the temperature of a home. In this instance the owner was home during the day with the front door left partially open to cool the apartment.
It only takes a moment for a thief to strike, says Corporal Mike Rail, Media Relations Officer for the Upper Fraser Valley Regional Detachment.
Police are asking the public to consider the following theft prevention tips:
Install good locks and always use them.
Close and secure ground floor windows at night.
Close and lock garage doors.
Keep all entrances and garages well- lit at night.
Trim shrubs and bushes to allow an unobstructed view to the front of your home.
Anyone with information regarding this break and enter, or anything they believe to be suspicious, is urged to contact the Chilliwack RCMP at 604-792-4611 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).