Break and enter thefts from our homes and workplaces remain all too common, even as B.C.'s overall reported crime rate is at its lowest level in decades.

Taking an alert walk around your home, with these tips in mind, might help prevent it from happening to your family.

• Lock up bicycles and other outdoor valuables.
• Stow away tools and ladders that could become the means of entry.
• Install deadbolts or interlocking bolt locks on exterior doors.
• Put a metal or wooden bar along the length of low hanging windows and sliding exterior doors-making sure they can still be easily opened in an emergency.
• Do not leave a spare key on the property. Leave one with a friend or trusted neighbour.
• Treat your garage door clicker like a key - do not leave it in the car.
• Install motion-sensor lighting, especially around dark path and entryways.
• Add distinguishing markings to electronic valuables, and record their serial numbers, to make them easier to identify if stolen.

Going away?

• Consider installing timers on lights, the radio, the television.
• Tell a neighbour you trust that you will be away.
• Have a trusted friend or family member stay at your home while you're away.
• Cancel your newspaper and other subscriptions and have someone pick up your mail.

Contact:

Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General
250 356-6961