113 break and enters, mostly houses, in 30 days in Mississauga and Brampton

Many Mississauga and Brampton homes remain a target for break and enters, according to recent police data.

Peel police’s crime data for March 2nd to March 30th indicates that a total of 113 break and enters took place across both cities — an increase from the 104 break and enters reported between February 10th to March 10th.

Brampton saw most of these break-ins with 64 total incidents, while the other 49 took place in Mississauga.

The data also indicates that 46 of these incidents took place at houses.

Other targeted areas were restaurants (25), stores (17), apartments (11), construction sites (7), offices (3), schools (2), and pharmacies (2).

“On average, residents of Brampton and Mississauga experience seven residential break and enters each day,” police say.

“Residential break-ins are typically crimes of opportunity, burglars typically target certain property based on characteristics that will increase their chances of breaking-in without getting caught.”

Police say areas likely to be targeted include corner lots, homes that back onto parks and other open spaces (which typically allow for greater access into the home), and property that does not appear to be maintained or “lived in.”

Residents are advised to maintain a safe home and prevent break-ins by following these tips:

• Ensure that shrubs and hedges around your property are maintained to have clear lines of sight to all accessible windows and doors.
• Keep garage and screen doors locked, even while at home.
• Get to know your neighbours and join forces by looking out for each other’s properties.
• Consider installing a second locking device for your windows and any sliding doors.

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