CORONA DEL MAR TODAY

NBPD Issues Tips to Prevent Thefts from Vehicles

Newport Beach police today issued a statement urging residents to learn five tips to prevent thefts and burglaries from vehicles.

“In July we saw an almost 50 percent reduction in the number of burglary and theft from motor vehicles from the month before,” the statement said. “To help us continue this downward trend, spend a FEW MINUTES ON THESE FIVE TIPS to prevent a thief from spending a few seconds in your vehicle!”

The tips include locking and securing doors and windows, even if you’re gone for just a few minutes; not leaving valuables in your car or concealing them from view before arriving at your destination; removing garage door openers from your car if you park outside your garage; activating car alarms; and parking vehicles in well-lit areas.

The release also warned of a crime trend involving the theft of third-row seats from SUVs. To prevent these thefts, police advise to use a cable lock to secure the third-row seat to your vehicle, to remove the seats when not using them, to park in the garage and to engrave the VIN number or your drivers license number on the seat’s frame.

Police also ask residents to report suspicion activities by calling (949) 644-3717.