Police are reminding residents of west-end Toronto to be vigilant following a string of break-ins.

The suspects wait for people to go into their backyards, after which they enter the homes through unlocked front doors.

Police say doors must be locked at all times, and residents should not leave notes on front doors which say they are “out behind.”

Residents are also told not to leave recorded messages on home phones which would tip off thieves about absences or being on vacation.