BIRCH BAY, Wash. -- Authorities are alerting the public after a string of burglaries in the Birch Bay area. Twenty-five thefts have been reported around Birch Bay over the last month. Most of the burglaries occurred at night in unsecured sheds and garages. Whatcom County Sheriff Bill Elfo says it appears to be the work of more than one burglar. In about five of the break-ins, the burglars entered the homes while the residents were sleeping. Sheriff Elfo says residents should take precautions to prevent break-ins by keeping doors and windows locked and keeping valuables secure. The Sheriff's Office is sponsoring a community meeting in Birch Bay to inform residents and offer some crime prevention tips. The meeting is happening at 6 p.m. Wednesday at Birch Bay Bible Community Church on Bay Road.