We’ve had reports of several recent break-ins and attempted break-ins in our community, primarily in the West Ridge area in Stittsville. Ottawa Police are continuing to monitor and investigate.
Some of the break-ins have targeted homes backing onto greenbelts or parks, and tend to occur when residents are not at home. Entry is via rear or second-storey windows, forced entry through patio doors or glass panels.
Prevention Tips
- Home security: Lock all doors and windows, use monitored alarms, install motion-sensor lighting.
- Lighting & visibility: Keep entrances and house access areas such as windows open and well lit. Entry points should have a clear view from the roads and or your neighbours.
- Surveillance: Use CCTV or doorbell cameras; register systems with police programs where available.
- Travel: Avoid posting travel plans; ask neighbours to watch your home. Having the appearance of someone’s home is also a deterrence, such as lights on timers, snow cleared away from the driveway and entrances, and bushes, hedges, and trees well groomed. Police also recommend you change your routine to make it less predictable when you come and go to work or your daily routines.
- Neighbourhood vigilance: Report suspicious people, vehicles, or scouting behaviour. You can also keep an open communication with your neighbours using word of mouth or community chat groups.
For crimes in progress or immediate threats, call 911. To report past incidents or suspicious activity, contact the Ottawa Police Reporting Unit at 613-236-1222, ext. 7300. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or crimestoppers.ca.
The Ottawa Police Service will continue to monitor activity and investigate throughout the holiday season.