The Regina Police Service is reminding residents to make sure their property is locked and safe from criminals after 58 reported break and enters between September 17 to 24.

Police say of the 58 recorded incidents within those eight days:

• 26 were garage break and enters;
• 23 were to residences;
• six in businesses; and
• three to compounds.

During that same week last year there were 32 break and enters.

In the wake of the recent rise in break and enters, the message from RPS to the public is to lock garage doors and sheds, and remove garage door openers from cars parked on the street or in the driveway.

Here are tips police have provided to help property owners prevent garage break and enters:

• Remove garage door openers from cars parked on the street or driveway. To thieves, that small piece of plastic is the key to a treasure trove of valuables, and even possible access to your house through an attached garage;
• Securely lock all garage doors; both outside doors and the attached doors that lead into the house;
• Assess the condition of garage doors. A weak or damaged door or lock is easily forced open by would-be intruders;
• Install motion sensor lights by your driveway/doors.

If anyone sees suspicious activity, they are encouraged to contact the Regina Police Service.