Police in the Quad Cities have recently been advising all residents to lock their cars at all times, to not keep garage openers in cars, and to not leave keys in cars. One may wonder why this issue is timely now. The occurrence of car break-ins along with other crimes have shown a serious increase in the past month.

Not only should citizens in general be worried, but teenagers should too.  Many teenagers with key codes on their car doors tend to leave their keys inside their car.  With the break-in rate going up, students are starting to worry, especially since parking in a high school parking lot filled with a ton of cars is similar to a little kid looking for candy then finding a huge candy store.  A junior at Pleasant Valley high school, Ben Piotter, said, “I always make sure to hide or keep all my valuables on me; like my phone, money, etc. I recommend that everyone also does so, to make sure your things stay safe.”

Recently, a couple people were taken into custody since they were found in action.  However, while they were in custody, the crime was still occurring, thus proving there are many people who are working together.

Police departments recommend people follow these precautionary steps to hopefully prevent their cars from being broken into.  First, people need to be positive that their car is locked, and not just assume it is then walk away.  Katie Morrissey, senior, said, “I believe it’s important for people to keep their cars locked at all times.  Not only will it save you from being the victim of this crime, but it will influence others to do the same.”  Second, park in the best place possible; this means one should not park in a dark alley or in the dark back corner of a parking lot.  Third, everyone should be hiding their belongings, whether that means hiding a purse under a blanket/jacket, or putting your brand new iphone out of sight.  Lastly, if anyone who has security is advised to use it. Having an alarm on a car tends to scare the thieves away.