The Ottawa Police Service is reminding people to lock their homes and vehicles after a recent spike in the number of overnight break-and-enters.
In some cases, the thieves are apparently targeting vehicles.
Police said since the beginning of September, there have been more than 300 reported residential break-and-enters.
In eight cases, entry to the home gave the thieves access to motor vehicle keys, allowing them to drive off with a car.
Police are encouraging residents to ensure the doors to a home, garage (including interior garage door allowing access to the home), and vehicles are locked before going to bed. Spare keys, wallets, purses, cell phones and other valuables should not be left in vehicles. Anything else of any value within the car should be hidden from public view.
Police are asking anyone with information can contact the Ottawa police break-and-enter Unit at 613-236-1222, ext. 3343.
Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers at 613-233-8477 (TIPS).
