With most businesses shuttered across Vancouver, they've become tempting targets for thieves.

That's led the Vancouver police to advise companies to take the following steps to avoid a break-and-enter:

* move merchandize away from windows and out of view—or simply take it out of the retail space;

* install shutters to make goods less visible to thieves and reduce the likelihood of damage;

* improve locks;

* enhance outdoor lighting levels;

* and check frequently for signs of forced entry and if this is discovered, save any surveillance footage and contact police.

The police recommendations came as the VPD announced that 40 suspects have been arrested and charged in connection with commercial break-and-enters.

“Although overall property crime is down in the city, there was an increase in commercial break and enter incidents once physical distancing measures were put into place,” Const. Tania Visintin said in a VPD news release. “We are targeting offenders committing these crimes through patrol and investigative initiatives and have made good progress.”