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Brody Langager

Saskatoon StarPhoenix

Published Jan 9, 2025

Concerns about break-ins at homes and businesses are circulating online as Saskatchewan’s cold winter weather coincides with a homelessness crisis.

The province’s two largest cities don’t have the capacity to house everyone who lacks permanent shelter. Saskatoon recently reported a count of almost 1,500 people experiencing homelessness, while Regina reported at least 824.

Crime maps published by the Saskatoon Police Service and the Regina Police Service show break and enters to residential and non-residential properties in every neighbourhood.

Virgil Reed, owner and CEO of Reed Security, said cold weather increases the number of break-ins at multi-unit homes, businesses and unoccupied buildings.

“Often, it’s homeless people looking for a place to stay warm and a place to sleep,” Reed said.

Unlocked vestibules are the preferred location during late night and early morning hours, he noted.

Another method of entry is “tailgating” — an intruder following an unsuspecting tenant into a property through a main entrance or parking garage.

Reed said the company has seen an increase in demand for keyless entry systems and video surveillance with artificial intelligence.

“Access control systems restrict access to the property and require a credential such as a keytag or a smartphone to unlock a door. This limits the opportunity for unwanted visitors.”

Security cameras with AI can recognize trespassers, identify what a person is wearing and ask intruders to leave directly from the camera.

Reed said reducing property crime comes down to common sense and creating awareness.

“Always make sure your doors are locked — including vehicles. Ensure adequate lighting in parking lots, stairwells and entry points. Evaluate the security measures at your property annually and proactively implement the latest crime reduction technology.”

Based on statistical data, Saskatoon Police said break-ins don’t necessarily trend with the weather, noting the peak of break and enter crimes reported in 2024 was in August, while the highest number reported in 2023 was in May.

However, the force noted that break-ins to common areas of apartment buildings could be recorded as suspicious persons reports — which are common and can represent a variety of incidents.

In the case of a break-in to a parking garage, vehicles can often be the target, and sometimes only one of those incidents gets reported to police.

If someone got into a private building only to escape the cold outside, there likely wouldn’t be an associated charge unless there was a criminal offence, Saskatoon police noted in a statement.

“If the person is open to it, we can and would refer them to other supports. We recognize the uneasiness that might come from seeing someone unfamiliar in an apartment building, and we would encourage people to report suspicious persons if they have concerns.”

If safeguarding your business and employees is important to you, it's essential to invest in a system that offers more than just basic security.

An access control system provides enhanced security, insightful data to make informed decisions and better accountability. 

3. Real-Time Alerts: Keep a real-time eye on the movements within your business premises, which can be pivotal in both preventing and addressing security incidents quickly.

   

4. Reduced Risk of Theft and Vandalism: By restricting access to certain areas, you significantly lower the chances of theft and vandalism, safeguarding your assets and intellectual property.

   

5. Integration with Existing Security Systems: Our Access Control System integrates smoothly with your existing security alarm and cameras, providing a cohesive and fortified layer of protection.

   

6. Compliance and Reporting: Effortlessly maintain compliance with industry regulations through detailed reporting and audit trails that the system can generate, giving you peace of mind and saving time.

7. Enhanced Employee Safety: Elevate the safety of your employees by controlling access to the premises and safeguarding them from potential intruders.

8. Cost-Efficiency: Save on costs in the long run by preventing security breaches, reducing the need for physical security personnel, and potentially lowering your insurance premiums. No More keys to replace.

9. Easy Management: Manage your system remotely, allowing you to respond to incidents swiftly and adjust security protocols as needed from anywhere, anytime.

Transform your business with Reed Security

Choosing Reed Security's Access Control System means choosing a partner dedicated to safeguarding your business with state-of-the-art technology and unrivaled support. Our team of experts are at your service to help design and implement a system that’s just right for your business, ensuring a seamless transition to a more secure future.

Ready to take the next step?

Reach out to us today at 306.653.3200 or visit our website at www.reedsecurity.com to learn more about how Reed Security's Access Control System can help run your business security.

Smarter access control

Reed's cloud-based access control combines intuitive user management with a seamless alarm and video integration. Whether you’re a small business with one door or a large multi-location operation with hundreds of doors, we’ve got you covered.

Escala, a project by Meridian Development, sits in one of the most storied neighbourhoods in Saskatoon. Steps away from the hustle and bustle of Broadway Avenue, yet secluded on University Drive, it offers a mix of apartment-style and townhouse-style condos for those who love the refined life.

Located at 637 University Drive, this luxurious residence is also one of the safest and secure properties in Saskatoon.

Protection for this project included: