During the month of November, there were four reported residential break and enters in the area - three within the village of Burns Lake and one rural.
Of the four reported break and enters, three of the incidents saw person(s) gain entry due to "an unlocked door," said Staff Sgt. Grant MacDonald with the Burns Lake RCMP. Luckily there were no items stolen in all four incidents.
Thus far in 2014, the Burns Lake RCMP Detachment has seen a 14 per cent increase in break and enters overall as compared to the same period of time in 2013. Residential break and enters, however, has had an increase of 107 per cent.
To date, there were 27 reported break and enters in Burns Lake in 2014. Of the 27 cases, only three investigations have led to charges.
"Police would like to remind homeowners the importance of target hardening which includes locking all doors leading into their home," said MacDonald. "Additionally, homeowners are encouraged to place sticks in windows and eliminate the opportunity of a person gaining entry to a home without breaking glass."
The Burns Lake RCMP Detachment encourages homeowners to consider using motion lights on the exterior of their residence. The community is also encouraged to report any suspicious activity by calling 250-692-7171.