During the month of June our city has been able to experience some beautiful seasonal weather.

Many people take advantage and enjoy the temperatures by keeping their residence windows open.

Investigators in Windsor Police Services Property Crime Branch have noted that in the month of June there have been a number of break and enters reported where investigation revealed that the suspect(s) gained entry to the residence via an open window, with only a screen acting as a barrier.

The Windsor Police Service is by no means suggesting that our community not enjoy the summer weather. We are however suggesting to be mindful as to the location and times that a residence window is left open. This is known as “target hardening” to reduce the risk of theft — essentially not inviting a would-be thief. Windows should offer light, ventilation, and visibility…not easy access.

Suggestions include not keeping ground floor windows open overnight, or when no one is home. Residents are further encouraged to keep an eye out in their neighbourhood, and report any suspicious activity to police.

A second and related reminder is to lock doors to both your vehicles and your residence. Many homeowners have an automatic garage door opener in their vehicle. Investigators have had a few cases this month where a suspect entered an unlocked vehicle, utilized the garage door opener, and then entered the residence via the unlocked pedestrian door leading into the residence.

As Benjamin Franklin once said: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”.