The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is reminding residents that they can help crack down on vehicle burglaries – a crime of opportunity that can be stopped in a few simple steps.

On Sunday, the sheriff’s office responded to three smash and grab style car burglaries at Urfer Park in Sarasota. As a result of the burglaries, which occurred just before 3:00 p.m., purses were stolen from each vehicle. Investigators are using this opportunity to remind the public that crimes like these can be prevented if citizens take a proactive approach to protecting their valuables.

The top five common sense tips to prevent vehicle burglaries are:

1. Keep windows closed and doors locked. The majority of local vehicle burglaries are to unlocked cars and the crime wouldn’t happen if the door didn’t open.
2. Hide your valuables. Stash your things out of sight, preferably in a locked trunk. Even criminals know to check the glove box, under a towel or beneath the seat.
3. If you have an SUV or another model with an open cargo area, get a retractable fitted cover to keep items hidden.
4. Stow your items before you park. Experienced thieves stake out parking lots to watch for people putting items in their trunk.
5. Trust your instincts. Avoid parking in unlit or overly concealed areas. If you see someone suspicious, tell security or contact local law enforcement.

It takes less than a minute for a thief to break your car window and snatch a purse or valuable electronics that are left in plain view. It takes even less time to reach into a vehicle that’s left unlocked and steal the cash in your console or other belongings. Citizens should remember the best defense is to not have valuables in your vehicle at all. Plan ahead and think about where you are going, what items you absolutely need, and what you can leave at the office or at home.