Ottawa police are warning residents in Kanata North to lock their doors after reports of 15 break-ins while people were home.

In most incidents, suspects gained entry into the residence through an unlocked rear patio door, while the victims were home.

Most of the thefts took place after 6 p.m.

Jennifer Goyette and her family were victims on Aug. 13. She also says her neighbours and a home down the street were broken into.

For Goyette, thieves entered through her patio door and stole laptops, a phone and her purse. Now the family, who live in the Morgan's Grant area, are on high alert.

"I turn all the lights on now when I go to sleep and my stepdaughter has had a really hard time with it," Goyette said. "She doesn't want to sleep here."

Thief spotted at least once

Police say at least one homeowner has spotted a thief in their home, but there are not enough details to describe a suspect.

Staff-Sgt. Richard Baldwin-Ooms says violence between a homeowner and pepretrator is of grave concern when thieves break-in while residents are home. (CBC)

The potential for violence is still a concern, though.

"The last thing we want to have is a confrontation in a home between an offender and a homeowner," said Staff Sgt. Richard Baldwin-Ooms.

"[But] if you see anything suspicious call us right away. Lock your doors and windows."

Half in Barrhaven, half in Kanata

About half of the 15 break-ins police are investigating took place in the Stonebridge neighbourhood in Barrhaven. The others happened in neighbouring Kanata neighbourhoods.

Police will be canvassing the neighbourhood this week to warn residents about the break-ins in person.

Goyette said she wants to make sure her family is not scared after the crime. She does not rule out confrontation.

"I'd be happy to chase someone out of my house, maybe they won't come back," she said.