How to Prevent Property Crime and Avoiding Break-Ins

Keeping your home safe from break-ins isn’t as complicated as it might seem.

While the statistics can be unsettling, there are simple, actionable steps you can take to protect your space and make it much less appealing to thieves.

Approximately 4.97 million Canadians have experienced a home invasion at least once according to House Grail.

I’ve compiled ten practical tips to help you safeguard your home.

Trust me, most of these don’t even require you to spend a dime—just a bit of effort and awareness.

1. Don’t Show Off What You Have

It’s easy to forget how much a peek through a window can reveal about your home. Expensive electronics, jewelry, or even high-end bikes in the yard can catch the attention of someone with bad intentions.

I’ve made it a rule to check what’s visible from my windows. If you walk around your house and see laptops, TVs, or valuables near windows, consider rearranging things.

Another thing I’ve learned: is don’t leave evidence of big purchases outside. Boxes for a new TV, gaming console, or high-end appliances left by the curb practically scream, “Come see what else I’ve got!” Break them down and put them in a recycling bin out of sight.

In cities like Toronto or Vancouver, where homes are closer together, keeping your yard and windows clear of valuables is especially important. Rural areas aren’t exempt either—visibility might be lower, but thieves often know to target seemingly quiet neighborhoods.

Breaking and entering offenses account for 16% of Canada’s overall Crime Severity Index, highlighting their significant impact on national crime statistics as noted same by the House Grail.

2. Make It Look Like You’re Home

Thieves tend to avoid occupied homes, so creating the appearance that someone’s around is crucial. In places like Calgary or Halifax, where daytime break-ins are common, this strategy is especially helpful.

Here’s what I do:

• Set up timers for lights, TVs, or radios. These gadgets are lifesavers when you’re out of town or working late.
• Leave curtains or blinds in their usual positions. Dramatically closing everything before leaving can tip someone off that you’re gone.
• Use outdoor lighting to keep your property visible at night. Motion-activated lights near entrances can be incredibly effective.

If you’re considering a security system, even just putting a security company’s sign in your yard can discourage a burglar. It’s a small step, but studies show that houses with these signs are less likely to be targeted.

3. Secure Sliding Doors and Windows

Sliding doors are a favorite entry point for burglars. Many older models can be lifted right off their tracks, even when locked. To avoid this, I’ve added a strong dowel or metal rod to the track of my sliding door. It’s an inexpensive fix that makes a huge difference.

For windows, consider installing pins or nails to prevent them from opening more than a few inches. Drill a hole in the frame where the sash meets, and slide in a sturdy pin. This simple trick keeps windows secure while still allowing for ventilation when you’re home.

I’ve also reinforced the frames around my window air conditioning units, which can be another vulnerable spot. If you’re interested in more detailed tips, learn more here.

4. Stop Hiding Spare Keys Outdoors

We’ve all done it—left a spare key under a flower pot or doormat. It seems harmless until you realize how predictable it is. Burglars know where to look, and it doesn’t take much effort for them to find your “hidden” key.

Instead, I’ve given a spare key to a trusted neighbor. If that’s not an option, consider investing in a combination lockbox. These are secure, weather-resistant, and much safer than the old under-the-mat trick. If you lose your keys, you’ll still have a reliable way to get in without compromising your home’s security.

5. Keep Your Yard Well-Maintained

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) is a concept that’s become popular in cities like Edmonton and Ottawa. It emphasizes creating outdoor spaces that discourage crime. Simple changes like adding thorny bushes near windows or keeping entryways well-lit can make a significant difference.

6. Lock It All Up—Always

It might sound obvious, but locking doors and windows is something many people overlook. In fact, 40% of break-ins don’t involve forced entry, meaning someone walked or climbed in through an unlocked entry point.

I always double-check locks before leaving the house, including the door between my garage and home. For sliding doors, I use a secondary locking mechanism to prevent tampering. Upgrading to high-quality deadbolts or smart locks can add an extra layer of protection, especially for frequently used entry points.

7. Build Relationships with Your Neighbors

Crime Prevention Info: If you’re interested in becoming more involved within your community, consider joining the local Neighborhood Watch group. If one does not exist or is not currently active, consider initiating yourown Neighborhood Watch Program by contacting the NLVPD. pic.twitter.com/Bw8Yp5OXhm

— NLVPD (@NLVPD) December 8, 2019

Getting to know the people around you can make a huge difference in neighborhood safety. Close-knit communities often report fewer break-ins because neighbors are more likely to look out for each other.

When I moved into my current place in Winnipeg, I introduced myself to my neighbors and joined our local Neighborhood Watch program. These programs, which have been around since the 1960s, are proven to reduce crime.

If you’re renting in a city like Montreal or smaller towns like Kelowna, this is even more important. Renters are statistically more likely to experience break-ins, so establishing a sense of community can help keep everyone safer.

Studies have shown that Neighborhood Watch programs are associated with a reduction in crime ranging from 16% to 26%, indicating their effectiveness in enhancing community safety according to the Office of Justice Program.

8. Prepare Before Vacations

When heading out of town, I always take extra precautions to avoid leaving my home looking empty. Piled-up mail, uncut grass, or an unshoveled driveway can signal that no one’s home.

Before I leave, I ask a neighbor to pick up my mail and newspapers. If that’s not an option, I pause deliveries. During winter trips, I arrange for someone to clear snow from my driveway. Small touches like these go a long way in making your home look occupied.

Data indicates that home invasions and burglaries tend to rise during the summer months, with property crimes peaking in July as noted by Rates.

9. Stay Aware of Suspicious Activity

While it’s great to have neighbors watching out for you, staying vigilant yourself is equally important. I make a habit of paying attention to unusual activities in my area. Local crime maps, often available through police departments, can give you insight into recent incidents near your home.

If you notice a stranger lingering around your neighborhood or vehicles driving by repeatedly, don’t hesitate to report it. Trusting your instincts can prevent potential problems before they escalate.

10. Use Security Technology

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Home security systems are no longer a luxury—they’re an investment in peace of mind. From doorbell cameras to smart locks, modern technology makes it easier than ever to monitor your home. In cities like Calgary, where crime rates vary by neighborhood, these tools can be especially helpful.

Even if a full security system isn’t in your budget, simple devices like motion-sensor lights, window alarms, or even fake security cameras can deter would-be intruders.

Despite preventive measures, breaking and entering remained a common crime in Canada in 2021, with the police reporting 125,500 breaking incidents as noted by the Toronto Security Company.

Final Thoughts

Home security doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By taking these steps, you can make your property a less appealing target and protect what matters most.

Whether you live in a bustling city or a quiet suburb, the key is to stay proactive. Start with small changes, build good habits, and you’ll create a safer space for yourself and your family.