Don't make it easy for thieves.
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That is the message to Lake Macquarie motorists who are being urged to lock their vehicles and keep valuables out of sight as the summer holidays approach.
Lake Macquarie City Council Community Planner Tony Ellitt said theft from vehicles was often an opportunistic crime, particularly when people left their cars unlocked in driveways or on worksites.
"There has been a spike in the trend of offenders smashing windows to steal visible valuables, such as wallets, phones, GPS units and hand tools," Mr Ellitt said.
"Stolen wallets and handbags can also lead to secondary crimes related to fraud."
Council is working with NSW Police to increase awareness about vehicle safety.
Tips to reduce the chances of being targeted include:
- Always lock your vehicle and take expensive items with you, even when only away from your vehicle for a short time
- Any desirable items left in a car should be placed out of sight
- Park beneath street lights and in other highly visible places
- Use a towel, blanket or jacket to hide items that can't be stored in the boot or a lockable tool box
An awareness campaign, including cinema and media advertising, will roll out in coming weeks.
Drop-in info stalls will also be held at Glendale Event Cinemas, 10am-12.30pm Tuesday, January 14 and 12.30-3pm Thursday, January 16.