Brewer Police Offer Valuable Tips for Keeping Your Stuff Safe

After many reports of car burglaries, the Brewer Police Department is providing some valuable tips for keeping your belongings safe.

What Types of Things Do Car Burglars Look For?

Car burglaries are the types of crimes that members of law enforcement call crimes of opportunity. Typically, car burglars don't break windows to enter a vehicle, but look for vehicles that are unlocked. They'll try the handle and, if it's open, take a quick scan of the interior and grab whatever they feel is valuable. I once had a car burglar steal a $5 visor clock from Walmart and a bottle of Tide detergent. Thieves will grab electronics, wallets and purses, credit cards, and anything else they feel would be of value to them.

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How Do the Police Suggest We Protect Ourselves?

Brewer Police decided to put their list of suggestions into a reel that not only tells you what to do, but also offers some visual reminders. It only takes a minute or two to follow their directions and protect your belongings from crooks who wouldn't think twice about removing them from your vehicle.

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The video gives these important tips:

• Always lock your doors
• Roll up your windows
• Hide valuables out of sight
• Park in well-lighted areas

Should We Do the Same When In Our Own Driveway?

These are not only important reminders for when you're out in public. It's important to follow this list in your own driveway because car burglars will go door to door at night, looking for unlocked vehicles. So when you park in your driveway, take a look around your vehicle and remove things like electronics, credit cards, purses and wallets, and anything else that might tempt a thief. If the door is locked, they'll move on and try to find another victim.