Concerns over home security are on the rise in Okotoks after a rash of daylight break ins.

Just last week Okotoks RCMP sent a press release asking residents to remain vigilant after a few break and enters occurred that are possibly connected.

Mike Lockhart, Security Manager at On Guard Security Okotoks says having a security system and well lit yard are some of the best lines of defence for homeowners.

"Just having a sign out on your lawn , and having stickers up on your windows from security companies is a huge deterrent for criminals that are looking for a place to break into. Some of the other great deterrents that people use are flood lights, getting lights set up outside your house so neighbours can see your yard and it's not dark."

As for those who don't have a home security system Lockhart shares another measure individuals can take besides locking doors to take to deter criminals.

"If you're leaving for the weekend or you're going on a trip just make sure your neighbours know you're going out of town. Make sure that somebody knows that you're leaving so they can check on your house or keep an eye on strange vehicles or people that are walking around."

Lockhart says another tip is to install security cameras, which can have a range of benefits.

"You can set cameras up to activate and record when there's motion outside of the house, or around the house. You can be alerted with some systems if somebody is walking up to your front door, you can get an alert on your phone to show that somebody is there. The other benefit to have that recording if something does happen to your house, to get a description of the person or people that are breaking into the house, or to get a description of the vehicle as well."

He adds technology has moved a long way in the security industry recently, in which home security systems, lights, and even blinds can be controlled from a smart phone or computer.

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