Austin car burglaries to skyrocket

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Car break-ins and auto thefts jump in Austin during the holiday season. The Austin Police Department is asking drivers to take extra precautions to avoid becoming a victim. Police are increasing patrols in shopping center parking lots during the holiday season. The busier the parking lot, the more likely a burglar might break-in.

Tuesday, Austin police held an event hoping to remind people that thieves are on the prowl. They will also be giving out "report cards" during the coming month. "[We are] going out and looking into cars to see if they find valuables folks have left out in plain view that would be a target for a burglar," said Sgt. Don Doyle with the Austin Police Department. "If they find something, they will check it off on the report card."

Austin police also said motorists should avoid hiding their valuables at a location where they will be parking the car. "There may be people who are casing the parking lot, watching for you to stuff something under the seat or take your purse and put it in the trunk," said Sgt. Melissa McGrath with APD. "All they have to do is break the window and most cars these days have a trunk release."

Here are some tips to remember:

• Take your keys
• Lock your car
• Park in well-lit areas
• Never leave your engine running
• Do not leave valuables in plain view
• Install protection devices