You’re running errands, bringing in groceries, heading back in the house to grab something.

Whatever the reason, you’ve left your car unlocked.

Maybe you left a set of spare keys in the glove compartment as a backup.

You’re busy, and you shouldn’t have to lock your vehicle because it’s on your property.

That thought is understandable.

But many car thieves break into unlocked cars.

All they have to do is pull the handle.

There were 26 motor vehicle break-ins last weekend in western Lexington County alone.

All of the vehicles were left unlocked.

Four were stolen because keys were left inside. Valuables were taken.

The best way to stop car break-ins is locking your vehicle.

Remove all valuables, especially your firearms. Your car is not a mobile

Your car is not a mobile gun safe.

Don’t make it easy for the criminals:

• Park under lights.

• Check your vehicles for electronics, money, etc.

• Roll up your windows.

• Take your spare keys.

• Don’t leave personal/identifiable documents inside.

• Lock your doors.

Yes, thieves break windows, too. It’s true.

But in 2019, 85% of car break-ins were left unlocked.

You can take steps to stop thieves. If you’re prone to forgetting to lock it, leave yourself reminders on the nightstand, on the fridge, on your phone alarm.

Thieves are looking for easy targets.

Don’t make yourself one of them.