Police tips to prevent car theft, break-ins | Crime

It may seem like common sense, but one of the best ways to ensure your car doesn't get stolen or broken into is simple: Keep it locked at all times. According to Birmingham police, a large number of vehicle thefts happen when citizens leave their vehicles unlocked with the keys still inside.

"With the extremely cold temperatures, we have had a number of vehicle thefts as a result of citizens allowing vehicles to run in an effort to warm the car while the vehicle is unattended," Sergeant Johnny Williams with the BPD said.

"In a large number of cases, citizens leave their keys in their vehicle as they go into a convenience store to make a purchase or pay for gas. Remember, 'This is not Mayberry!'" Williams urged. "The public has been a huge factor in helping combat crime in the community. We want to continue the partnership in reducing crime and ensure everyone has a safe holiday season. If someone suspects that a vehicle break-in or theft is taking place, contact police immediately."

The Birmingham Police Department issued the following tips to preventing car break-ins and thefts:

1. Never leave your vehicle running and unattended while in your home or in a store. This has become one of the most common forms of stolen vehicles.
2. Park in a well lit area at night or when shopping.
3. Equip your vehicle with an anti-theft device.
4. Close all windows and lock all doors.
5. Keep your tag number and vehicle identification number in your wallet.
6. Don’t leave valuables in plain view.
7. Don’t leave GPS mounts attached to windows.
8. After shopping, don’t leave packaging of expensive gifts in the front of your residence for garbage pick-up. If possible, break down the packaging and place it in garbage bags or cans. You can also transport packaging to area land fields for disposal.