Police warn Whitby residents to be “vigilant” about a recent rash of break-ins

Durham Police are warning residents to be vigilant after five reported break-ins in Whitby over the Labour Day weekend.

These incidents are part of a larger trend of more frequent home invasions, a police spokesman cautioned, noting that the suspects in the Labour Day break-ins were known to be targeting houses while the occupants weren’t home.

Police say homes are often targeted during long weekends since the tenants are gone for several days. With Thanksgiving on the horizon, police are offering some timely advice:

• Occupants should have a trusted neighbour check on their property periodically while they’re away. Police also recommend giving the home the appearance of being occupied.
• Residents can do so by leaving a car in the driveway, leaving lights on with timers, have a house sitter remove delivered mail, and by not posting travel details online.

Anyone with knowledge of the Labour Day break-ins can contact D/Cst. Crosbie at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 1815.