Carbondale police offers tips to avoid vehicle burglaries

CARBONDALE, Ill. (KBSI) – The Carbondale Police Department urges the community to use caution as the weather gets colder and vehicle thefts typically increase.

During this time of year vehicle owners tend to start and leave their cars running for it to warm up and melt ice and snow off. Many times cars are left unattended and unlocked giving thieves an opportunity to steal the vehicle, according to Carbondale police. This practice is also illegal in Illinois unless the vehicle is locked and utilizes a remote starting device.

Carbondale police recommend the following tips for keeping your car safe:

• Keep your vehicle doors locked at all times.
• Park your vehicle in a locked garage or where there is plenty of light and it is visible to passing patrol cars.
• Keep your windows closed.
• Don’t leave valuables in the vehicle when unattended.
• Don’t leave items out in plain view.
• Consider a remote starting feature for times when you need to start your vehicle prior to leaving when clearing ice from the windows.

People looking to steal a vehicle tend to walk slowly by cars and attempt to casually lift door handles to check if the car is unlocked. Residents are urged to call the police department if they see this type of activity. It is also recommended that they record the activity to assist in investigations.