The City of Brewer has seen a rash of car burglaries in recent weeks, and so they're offering some tips to help residents keep their belongings safe. Even if you don't live in the town where I grew up, it's still great advice!

It happens every summer. Crooks will prowl residential neighborhoods and parking lots, looking for unlocked vehicles full of loot. Actually, it happens all year-round because my car was rifled over the winter. Too bad for the crooks that I never carry anything except empty coffee cups in my car!

The first tip from the police is an obvious one, but is also one we tend to forget. Keep your car locked at all times. And, remember when you get out, to roll up the windows! ( so easy to forget that in the summer) While it's true that it may take you an extra minute or two to get in your car, and can be inconvenient if you expect to have your hands full of grocery bags, it will be a much bigger pain replacing the stuff that gets stolen.

Motor Vehicle Burglars tend to go for things like electronics, credit cards, and cash. So don't leave your purse or wallet in an unlocked car. Same goes for electronics like iPods, iPads, and laptops. If you have to leave them in the vehicle, lock them in the trunk. The thieves are also fond of CD's, so you might want to take them inside with you, or put them in the trunk, as well.

Keep track of what's in your car so, if you are a victim of one of these crimes, you'll know what's been taken. It's not always immediately noticeable that your car's been broken into. I've had it happen twice. The first time, I noticed that the can of soda that had been in the cup holder was now on the floor, and the folder that contained my registration was also on the floor. A few years ago, burglars took a five dollar digital clock from Walmart and some Tide laundry detergent from my car. (yes, it's now always locked)

Finally, if you notice anything suspicious in your neighborhood, call the cops. You know better than they do what's normal for your surroundings. A good clue is someone who seems to be walking up and down driveways in the neighborhood. If you see it, call police immediately so they can check it out. Believe me, they won't be mad if it turns out to be nothing. But they'll be very grateful if you can help them nab the bad guys!

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