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Photo by (Zach Laing / Postmedia Network)

“We’re starting to see these more concerning events where we’re seeing offenders interacting with homeowners and that for us is somewhat distressing,” said Crippen. “We don’t want that to ever happen.”

Crippen said he can recall some cases in which people are diligent at securing their homes and property, but then one little slip-up allows an offender to strike.

The service has continued to promote its 9 p.m. routine — a daily reminder to remove valuables from vehicles, ensure all vehicle doors, house doors and windows are closed and locked, as well as turning on an exterior light every night.

“It is a bit concerning, because we’ve sent that message several times and we’ve asked to work with the community,” said Crippen. “We just want to revisit that message continuously.”

Police said criminals are usually looking for electronics, purses, wallets or car keys to gain access into a home, or steal vehicles from driveways or garages.

Authorities said 2,587 burglaries, both residential and commercial, were reported in Calgary from April to June, which marks an increase of about nine per cent from January to March this year.

Of those, 654 were residential break-ins from April to June, which is a 32 per cent increase from the first three months of the year. Police said a residential burglary occurs approximately every 2.5 hours in Calgary.

They estimate criminals only have to force entry in approximately 34 per cent of break-ins.

Recently, police arrested an 18-year-old in connection to a series of break-ins in Calgary’s northern communities. Nearly 20 burglaries occurred in September, and in many cases, residents were at home during the time of the incident.

People can report a burglary to police by calling the non-emergency number at 403-266-1234 or call 911 for crimes in progress.