Residential Break-and-Enter

Communities in West Division have seen an increase in residential break and enters. To help protect your property and reduce the risk of becoming a target, the Durham Regional Police Service are conducting awareness initiatives in the most affected communities and have created a list of tips to keep your home safe. 

Crime Prevention Tips for a Safer, More Secure Property

In Your Community

•    Get to know your neighbours. Informal surveillance helps. Look out for neighbours and their property.
•    Leave a set of keys and emergency phone numbers with one you trust.
•    When working in your yard or garage, keep all doors to your home locked
•    Be aware of strangers and suspicious vehicles. If you see someone suspicious call the non-emergency number at 905-579-1520. If you are see a crime in progress, call 911.

In Your Home

•    Always keep your doors and windows locked.
•    Upgrade to high-quality deadbolts and reinforce strike plates with long screws. Install secondary locks on high-risk doors (ex. basement walkouts).
•    Use window security film and security bars and/or anti-lift devices on ground-level windows and basement or sliding doors.
•    Keep your blinds and/or curtains closed at night so people cannot see inside.
•    Keep the inside of your home well-lit. Use timers on lights when you’re away to create the appearance of occupancy.
•    Keep valuables out of sight from windows and doors.
•    Use safes for valuables, bolted to the floor or wall.
•    Record serial numbers and photograph appliances, electronics and other valuables so they are easier to identify. 
•    Rekey locks if you lose a key or move into a new home.

Outside of Your Home 

•    Keep your property well-lit at night, especially around entryways and pathways.
•    Install motion activated exterior lighting around entry points and dark areas. 
•    Maintain the exterior of your property to ensure it has a “lived-in” appearance. An unkempt property can look vacant and may encourage break ins.
•    Trim trees and bushes that could conceal burglars, especially around doors and windows.
•    Fence your property and ensure gates lock securely.
•    Lock your vehicle, remove valuables, and park in well-lit areas. 
•    Do not leave garage door remotes in cars parked outside.
•    Do not leave the cardboard box from an expensive purchase in plain sight on recycling day.

Surveillance and Alarms

•    Install security cameras with night vision. Mount them in visible areas where they are a visible deterrent, but high enough to prevent tampering. Cameras should cover points of entry, driveways and blind spots. Register your cameras with the Durham Regional Police Service with CamSafe. 
•    Use a monitored alarm system with door and window sensors and audible sirens.
•    Use smart locks or doorbell cameras to control and monitor entry attempts.

When on Vacation or Away 

With the holiday season around the corner, many families will be jet-setting or packing their families into minivans. Here is a checklist of tips to follow to help keep your home safe and give you peace of mind while you are away.

Before You Leave
•    Lock all doors, windows, garages, sheds, and vehicles.
•    Set timers on interior lights to mimic normal activity.
•    Pause mail and deliveries, or have someone collect them.
•    Arrange snow removal or lawn care to keep your home looking lived-in.
•    Unplug non-essential electronics; shut off water if away long-term.
•    Secure valuables in a bolted safe, hidden from view.

Make It Look Occupied
•    Leave blinds/curtains in their usual positions.
•    Use smart devices (lights, TVs, radios) to simulate activity.
•    Keep outdoor lighting on timers or motion sensors.
•    Park a vehicle in the driveway, or ask a neighbour to.

Digital & Social Media Safety


•    Avoid posting trip updates or photos until you return.
•    Disable location tagging on social apps.
•    Be cautious with “away” auto-replies that may reveal your absence.

Trusted Contacts

•    Ask a family member or neighbour to check your home regularly.
•    Provide a spare key to someone trustworthy (never hide a key outside).
•    Have them adjust blinds/lights occasionally and bring garbage/recycling to the curb on schedule.

Security Measures

•    Ensure cameras and alarms are working before you leave.
•    Use monitored alarm services if available.
•    Arm all sensors and smart locks.
•    Position cameras to cover entrances, driveways, and key access points.

Vehicles & Garage

•    Keep all vehicles locked, even inside the garage.
•    Remove garage door openers from cars parked outside.
•    Use manual garage door locks or bars where possible.

Remember: Taking a few simple steps before travelling can significantly reduce the risk of break-and-enters. Planning ahead helps ensure you return to a safe and secure home.