ERPD offers tips to prevent thefts from vehicles

The Elk River Police Department is making the public aware of a spree of theft from motor vehicle incidents that have been taking place all over the Twin Cities and greater Minnesota areas. In a Facebook post, ERPD said these thefts from motor vehicles appear to be primarily happening in the following scenarios:

• Theft from motor vehicles parked at local parks, regardless of whether or not the vehicle is locked (people will break windows to gain entry).

• Theft from motor vehicles during large sporting events in town, such as sports tournaments.

• Theft from motor vehicles parked at day cares during morning drop-off hours.

While it is never the victim of a theft’s fault, there are certain preventative measures that can be taken:

• Lock your vehicle and take all personal belongings with you when leaving your car, including car keys, cell phones, wallets, and so forth.

• If you can’t take personal belongings with you, be sure to hide the items prior to parking your vehicle in the parking lot.

• Be vigilant when you’re in parking lots; if you see something suspicious, call 911 to report it.