EL PASO COUNTY, COLO. -- Burglaries of new homes under construction are up in rural El Paso County, according to the Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities said there have been increased reports of the burglaries in the past few weeks.

Primary targets for the burglaries appear to be, according to the Sheriff’s Office, in the Northern and Eastern areas of unincorporated El Paso County.

The homes are being targeted for copper wire and appliances, authorities said. The Sheriff’s Office said construction companies should work to make sure the homes are secure after hours.

Homes that are under construction are not open to the public, authorities said.

"The Sheriff’s Office has taken a proactive approach to this concern with the goal of reducing these incidents and solving the active cases associated with this crime," the Sheriff’s Office said in a news release.

To report suspicious activity at a new home, call theEl Paso County Sheriff’s Office at (719) 390-5555.