People living in Carlsbad are on alert after a recent rash of burglaries in the area.

When driving through many neighborhoods, it is not hard to often spot an open garage, open window or unlocked door.

But with the summer months upon us, police are reminding people that no neighborhood is exempt from crime.

“When it gets really hot, we have a habit of leaving windows open for air and ventilation. This is leaving a hole in your house. Find alternate methods of cooling off and not leaving everything unsecured, even when you leave for the grocery store,” said Josee Sasway of the Carlsbad Police Department.

In recent weeks, 19 homes have been broken into in Carlsbad, according to police.

Police said the burglars are striking during the day when most people are at work or running errands.

In several cases, the thieves used gloves and have stolen jewelry, computers and cameras.

“We were missing a sleeping bag and a small TV set we had during the night,” said Tony Hendrickson.

Hendrickson is remodeling a home in the neighborhood where one of the burglaries took place.

“It happens everywhere. I’ve had tools taken. You turn your back, and things are gone. You can be in the safest neighborhood like this one, and you think nothing would ever happen,” said Hendrickson.

According to the National Burglar and Fire Alarm Association, nearly 5 million homes are burglarized every year.

Experts said it is a good idea to install a motion detector -- lights that turn on when someone goes in your yard.

Another step people can take is getting a dog that can often scare intruders away.

Alarm systems are good options as they alerts homeowners of an intruder and can often act as a deterrent.

People in living in Carlsbad said they would take more precautions.

Police recommend that people going on vacation halt newspaper and mail delivery.