Even if the weather outside is frightful and the house looks warm and inviting, one should still take time to lock the car. Even better, remove all the valuables and bring them inside, too.

Thousand Oaks Police Detective Eric Buschow said the drop in temperature helps create a jump in vehicle robberies.

"With the cooler weather, people stay inside their homes more with their windows closed."

With fewer people out on the streets at night, vehicle burglars have less chance of being seen, Buschow said.

"They walk down streets looking into cars and finding unlocked doors."

What they find are cellphones, iPods, GPS units, laptops and other goodies they can sell, often using the cash to buy drugs.

Buschow implored residents not to attract crime to the city by making it so easy for vehicle burglars to operate here.

—Nancy Needham