Break-ins appear to be on the rise in Wallaceburg.
Chatham-Kent police say they investigated five incidents Monday night alone in the area of Chestnut Dr., Dufferin Ave., and Turnbull Ave.
During those break-ins, someone stole an undisclosed number of items from some unlocked sheds and garages.
As a result, police are now releasing a few tips for how you can protect yourself against criminals who are looking for some quick cash and valuables:
- Lock all of your doors -- especially the ones on your house, your shed or garage, and your vehicles
- Don't let everyone know you're going on vacation -- posting freely about being away from your home or leaving a message on your voicemail saying you are away for an extended period of time could tip criminals off and make you a potential target.
- If you are going away on vacation or you are going to be away from home for a while, ask a trusted neighbour to watch your house.
- Make your house look like there is someone home even if you are away -- use timer-controlled lights, have mail or paper delivery temporarily stopped at your house or have a trusted neighbour pick it up for you, and/or arrange for your neighbours to park in your driveway
- Install a quality security system with motion sensors and/or video monitoring.
- Make sure all of your windows are locked and secured shut -- especially those on the ground level.
If you notice any suspicious people or vehicles in your neighbourhood, you should call police right away so they can investigate.
Anyone with information on a break-and-enter or any other crime can also call Crime Stoppers to submit a tip at 1-800-222-8477.