Nearly a half-dozen distraction burglaries in the Capital Region have several communities on edge, and their police departments are working to end the crimes.

Police say the suspects are preying on the elderly. Colonie Police have confirmed three distraction burglaries Thursday where the suspects pretended to be electricians. One of them, on Sursingle Road, ended successfully with more than $1,000 stolen.

Police say there was a similar distraction burglary in Bethlehem, prior to the three Colonie burglaries, and a fifth one in Niskayuna.

To avoid being a victim, follow these tips:

• Don't open the door to anyone you don't know.

• Hide any money that may be out in the open in your home.

• Call 911 right away if something feels suspicious.