Chilliwack RCMP are reminding vehicle owners to remove remote controlled garage door openers and to lock their automobile doors when securing their vehicle for the night. The reminder comes after garage door remote controls were used by thieves to break into two homes in March.
The most recent incident happened around 5:30 a.m. on March 15, when a homeowner in the 47000 block of Swallow Crescent called police to report they were awakened by their dog barking, and the noise of someone in the kitchen. General duty officers supported by the Lower Mainland Integrated Police Dog Section arrived quickly at the address , but after completing a full search of the area did not find the suspect.
On March 6 police were called to a home in the 6000 block of Rexford Drive by homeowners who awoke in the morning to find their residence was broken into overnight.
RCMP do not believe the incidents are related.
“Police believe suspects opened garage doors using remote controlled garage door openers left in unlocked vehicles to break into the homes,” said Cpl. Mike Rail. “Removing valuables and locking your vehicle is a task which is easily forgotten but so important at the end of the day.”
Anyone with information regarding the break and enters is urged to contact the Chilliwack RCMP.
Some prevention tips to protect your property from theft include;
• Always lock the doors when leaving your vehicle.
• Ensure valuables are out of sight if left in your vehicle during the day.
• Do not leave valuables in your vehicle overnight.
• Do not leave loose change inside of your vehicle.
• An alarm is an effective deterrent.
• Do not leave remote controlled garage door openers in your vehicle overnight.
For more helpful tips on how to protect your property from theft check out the RCMP website or ICBC.
RCMP remind everyone who witnesses anything they believe to be suspicious in nature to contact the Chilliwack RCMP at 604-792-4611 or, if they wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).