RCMP offers tips to prevent yard theft and break and enters

As warmer weather brings more time away from home, Alberta RCMP is urging residents to take simple steps to secure their properties against yard theft and break and enters.

In 2025, there were 3,132 residential break and enters recorded across Alberta RCMP jurisdiction. In June of that year alone, 283 occurred, making it one of the busiest months for property crime.

Police say most yard theft is opportunistic. The RCMP is promoting Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design, known as CPTED, as a proven approach to reducing that opportunity.

Key recommendations include keeping yards well lit with motion sensor lights at every entry point, and maintaining clear sightlines by trimming trees and shrubs that could provide cover for a thief. Locked gates, covered and locked windows, and a security system, particularly for seasonal properties or frequent travellers, are also advised. Sheds and garages should always be locked, with valuable items like lawn mowers, barbeques, and bikes stored out of sight.

Anyone who discovers a crime on their property should report it to police immediately. Reports help officers determine where to patrol and who to look for.

To report suspicious activity, contact your local police service. To report a crime in progress, call 911. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, online at www.P3Tips.com, or through the P3 Tips app. The RCMP non-emergency line within any Alberta RCMP jurisdiction can be reached by calling 310-RCMP (7267).