First trip to cottage after winter? It may have been broken into, RCMP say

People returning to their summer-season home for the first time this year may encounter a nasty surprise: RCMP say many break-and-enter thieves take advantage of the winter season and absent owners.

According to RCMP, every year they receive many complaints about break-ins to campers, trailers and cottages that sat idle during the winter.

RCMP said they have reports of multiple break and enters from property owners in the following spots:

• Eagle Valley Campground
• Clearwater Lake Park
• Saskatchewan Landing Park
• Lac Pelletier
• Sandpoint Resort
• Good Spirit Lake
• Thompson Lake
• Spy Hill
• Regina Beach
• Buffalo View Campground

RCMP said anyone who discovers they were broken into should file a report with police.

"Don't hesitate to call police because you think the incident is too insignificant," RCMP said in a statement. "Calling the police is an important part of protecting yourself and being a good neighbour. Informing police about crimes that have occurred is one way of preventing future crimes."

RCMP provided some tips for people who find their seasonal residence has been broken into:

• Do not enter the property.
• Report the incident to police and they will give you instructions to follow to avoid personal risk and evidence contamination.
• Try to protect obvious foot prints and tire tracks.

To report a non-emergency, you can call your local detachment or 306-310-RCMP.

Complaints can be registered in person or at your nearest detachment.

RCMP also advise owners to report any suspicious activity, including suspicious activity at a neighbour's seasonal residence.

Here are some tips to prevent break-ins:

• Do not post your vacation plans or photos on social media. Such posts, the RCMP say, tell the world you won't be at your primary residence. Photos may identify items you keep at your seasonal residence.
• Mark your valuables and record the contents of your residence by taking photos of your valuables. Record serial numbers of your recreational items. Don't forget to record the Hull Identification Number from your boat.
• Record serial numbers of all items on your property. Remove expensive articles from your property when you are away for extended periods of time, including small valuables, electronics, medications and alcohol.
• Lock your doors and don't leave a spare key hanging in a convenient place.
• If you are away for a significant period of time, consider having someone check on your property while you are away.