Prince George RCMP are warning people to take extra precautions after a rash of break and enters.
Since Aug. 7, police have responded to 26 break and enters throughout the city, with the Spruceland and Pinewood areas getting hit the hardest. The BCR industrial area has also had a number of incidents.
According to the RCMP, residential properties have had doors kicked in or suspects have entered through open windows. The thieves seem to be targeting flat screen TVs and laptop computers. Commercial and industrial properties have had chain-link fences cut.
There are indications that many of these crimes are being carried out by the same person or number of people - at various times of day - and that a truck or van is likely used.
Investigators are warning the public to properly secure their homes before going out and the police offered the following tips to avoid becoming a break-and-enter victim:
n Although temperatures are currently very high, locking windows and doors when you are not home may be enough to deter or cause the culprits to overlook your property.
n Obtain a security system. Thieves are less likely to enter a property with an alarm.
n Check on business properties on evenings and weekends. The more business owners go to industrial and commercial areas during non-business hours, the more likely suspects will be spotted.
n Record serial numbers of electronics and valuable items whenever possible. Providing serial numbers significantly increases the chance of having items returned and charges laid.
n Be a good neighbour. Report anything suspicious to police right away and let the police determine if something is wrong.
For more information on property crime prevention, visit www.princegeorge.rcmp.ca.
