Tasmania Police warns car owners to lock their vehicles and keep valuables out of sight

POLICE are reminding car owners to lock their vehicles and keep valuable items out of sight after an increase in motor vehicle break ins and thefts.

Police are warning Tasmanians to lock their cars and not place valuable items in sight.

POLICE are reminding car owners to lock their vehicles and keep valuable items out of sight after an increase in motor vehicle break ins and thefts.

There have been 346 more motor vehicle burglaries and 110 more motor vehicle stealings reported across the state than at the same time last year, according to Tasmania Police statistics.

Commander Tony Cerritelli said Tasmania Police had released a series of educational videos on social media as part of its “Don’t give them a chance” campaign.

“While we’re out there working hard to prevent and investigate crime, we also need the

public’s help,” Commander Cerritelli said today.

“We don’t want anyone to have valuables stolen from their car or their car damaged in

a break-in, nor do we want to see their vehicles stolen.

“Thieves are opportunistic and by taking away the opportunity they can be deterred.

“They might try the handle on a car door and if it’s locked they may quickly move on to

another car … An open window, unlocked door or valuable items left in clear view are too much of a temptation for many offenders to ignore. Don’t extend that opportunity.”

Police are also warning people to park cars in a driveway or well-lit area at night, and to install a security device, such as an immobiliser, in cars more than 10 years old.