Staff Sergeant Stephanie Burns says residents should be vigilant about strangers coming into their buildings, locking their cars, garages and sheds, and hiding their valuables.

The Ottawa Police Service is reporting yet another break and enter, as it says it's seen a significant uptick in local break-ins over the past month.

Officers say a man was seen breaking into the laundry room of an apartment building on Lavergne Street in Vanier around 12:42 a.m., Thursday, and leaving the area carrying something.

The suspect was spotted and arrested nearby.

"We are seeing a 70 per cent increase in break and enters in the past month," says Staff Sergeant Stephanie Burns. "We are reminding the community to take every step possible to protect their property. That includes being vigilant about strangers coming into your building, locking your car, your garage and shed, and hiding your valuables."

Michel Perron, 48, of Ottawa, has been charged with:

Breaking and Entering

Possession of Break and Enter Tools

Mischief under $5,000

He is scheduled to appear in court Thursday. Perron was also arrested yesterday for another break and enter.