67 break and enters in 30 days in Mississauga and Brampton

Mississauga and Brampton homes continue to be a target for burglars according to recent police data.

Peel Regional Police crime mapping data says that 67 incidents of break and enter have occurred between July 6 and August 4.

Data shows that over half of the break and enter incidents reported in the last 30 days happened at houses.

31 break and enters happened at stores, offices, apartments, construction sites, schools, and restaurants. The remaining 36 of the 67 incidents took place at houses.

That means there is an average of at least one home being broken into every single day in the region.

Peel Police say some properties are more likely to be targeted such as corner lots, homes that back onto parks and other open spaces, and homes that do not appear to be maintained or “lived in.”

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

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.