Edmonton police are warning residents in the downtown core – after reports of two suspects going door to door, under the guise of helping their neighbours, but they’re reportedly breaking into homes.
Investigators with the EPS Downtown Divison said the pair has allegedly been offering to shovel the walks of their neighbours.
However, police said when the suspects don’t get an answer after knocking on the door; they use it as an opportunity to break into homes.
The incidents have been reported in the Alberta Avenue and Delton areas.
In an effort to help Edmontonians protect themselves, police shared the following safety tips:
- Keep doors and windows closed, and locked – and don’t open doors to strangers
- Property and valuables should be hidden from view
- Ensure the outside of your property is well-lit at night
- Make sure exterior doors and frames are sturdy, and cannot be forced open – and pins on external doors can’t be accessed from the outside
- Don’t leave spare keys hidden outside
- Get to know your neighbours, and keep an eye on each other’s properties
- Consider investing in a home alarm system
“It’s important to report any suspicious activity to police immediately,” Cst. Christopher Lucas said in a press release. “We want to keep you and your property safe.”
Anyone with information on such suspicious behaviour in their neighbourhood is encouraged to contact the Edmonton Police Service non-emergency line at 780-423-4567 or #377 on a mobile phone.
Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Edmontonians who witness a crime in progress are urged to call 911.
