Lunenburg County RCMP are warning the public to take extra precautions and be vigilant following a recent rash of break and enters.

Since October 1, RCMP have responded to 34 break and enters in the Lunenburg County area.

The East Chester area of Lunenburg County has been the hardest hit by these crimes. Investigators are warning the public to properly secure their homes prior to going out. Here are a few tips to help prevent becoming a victim:

– lock windows and doors whether you are home or not, it maybe enough to deter or cause the culprits to overlook your property;
– obtain a security system. Thieves are less likely to enter a property with an alarm;
– when you are away from your home, make it look occupied by leaving lights on when you go out. If you are gone for any length of time, it is a good idea to leave a radio playing and to use automatic timers on several lamps;
– don’t allow daily deliveries to accumulate. Ask a trusted neighbour, friend or relative to take in your mail or newspapers if you are going away.
– keep your garage door closed and locked;
– arrange to have your driveway and walkways shovelled;
– record serial numbers of electronics and valuable items whenever possible. Providing serial numbers significantly increases the chances of having items returned and charges laid;
– never leave keys under flowerpots, doormats, inside mailboxes or in other ‘secret’ hiding places…burglars know them all;

Above all, be a good neighbour and report anything suspicious to police right away. Let the police determine if something is wrong.

Anyone with information about these crimes is encouraged to contact your local RCMP Detachment or Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477(TIPS), or submit a Secure Web Tip at http://crimestoppers.ns.ca. Remember, Crime Stoppers wants your information, not your name.

Source: Release