Following recent break-and-enter incidents on private property, Nanaimo RCMP has released a step-by-step guide to assist residents in case of a home invasion.
Earlier this week, a Nanaimo man returned to find his private vessel had been broken into and severely damaged. The suspect was arrested and to be forcibly removed by RCMP specialized units.
Later that day, Nanaimo RCMP released information on what to do if you think your home has been broken into.
“Discovering a break‑in can be frightening, but taking the right steps can help keep you safe and support any investigation,” states Nanaimo RCMP.
What to do in case of a home invasion
The following steps are advised by RCMP if you suspect a home invasion has occurred.
Keep yourself safe
Nanaimo RCMP says not to enter the home right away. If there is a chance the intruder is still inside, RCMP advises you keep a safe distance from the home, as well as your vehicle or a neighbour’s home.
Call 911
Once you are out of harm’s way and somewhere safe, the first phone call you make should be to 911. As soon as possible, RCMP says to call 911 to report the details on what you observed.
Do not confront or investigate
RCMP reminds victims not to confront anyone, but instead to keep an eye on your home from a safe distance, watching for any movement or people leaving. Then, instead of investigating, wait until police arrive before taking any other actions.
Wait for police to say it’s safe to enter
Do not enter your home unless police give the OK to go inside. Once inside, avoid touching or moving anything as any items could be considered evidence, and moving items could impact the investigation. Instead, make note of anything that’s missing or out of place.
Wait for police to finish their assessment
Once officers finish their assessment, residents will be guided through the next steps, including properly securing the property.
Contact insurance
Once officers have cleared the scene, contact your insurance provider to start a claim.
“They will typically ask for the police file number, a list of stolen or damaged items, and photos where appropriate,” adds Nanaimo RCMP.
Mounties also say this is often an opportune time to assess your current home security set-up and determine if any improvements are needed, including “better locks, lighting, alarms, cameras, or reinforcing entry points,” RCMP says.
Seek support
Mounties also understand how unsettling a break-in or home invasion can be and advises victims to talk with someone, whether that’s family, friends, or support services if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
While this list of steps comes after a recent break-and-enter on a tugboat, Nanaimo has seen a string of property crime incidents, including incidents with repeat offenders. It’s one reason why Nanaimo is among two other B.C. municipalities selected for a pilot project providing additional police resource sin communities with high rates of repeat offenders.
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As Nanaimo is working to crack down on property crime, there has been some improvement between 2024 and 2025. Break-and-enter incidents in residences declined by 16 per cent between 2024 and 2025.
Break-ins also declined in several categories, but other theft and theft from vehicles increased. Overall, Nanaimo RCMP is working to see the numbers improve across the board, and hopes the step-by-step guidelines equip the public with the tools to respond in these situations.
And with the recent activity, Mounties are reminding residents of ways to not only manage a possible situation, but identify ways to help prevent it where possible.
