Vehicle thefts are still common here, although incidents have decreased so far this year versus the same period last year, says Detective Eric Buschow. "Locking the car and not leaving valuables in plain sight is what helps prevent vehicle thefts, because they don't break in if they don't see valuables," he said.

GPS systems, satellite radios, cellphones, iPods, laptops and other items seen through the window prompt vehicle thieves to steal them, Buschow said.

He also suggested not leaving keys to the vehicle or to another car in the same driveway inside the vehicle, even if the keys aren't in plain sight.

"If they find a key, they will take the vehicle," Buschow said.

Sometimes inside the glove compartment is information that can lead to identity theft, he said. And leaving valuables inside unattended vehicles sets off a chain reaction involving identity and car theft.

The shattering of a car window doesn't make much noise, and thieves are willing to take the risk for valuables they can easily see, Buschow said.

According to a police report, KinderCare child care facility parking lots have been the scene of two recent thefts.

The victims parked and locked their vehicles, then went inside for a short time. When they returned, each found that a burglar had smashed their right front passenger window and stolen valuables. Both incidents involved SUVs.

Vehicle burglaries can happen anytime and anywhere when property is left visible inside a vehicle—day or night, he said.

Police suggest that when people park their cars, they check to see if anyone is observing them in the immediate area before exiting their vehicle.

Arrests made last year have helped to prevent more thefts, Buschow said.

- - Nancy Needham