The Santa Barbara Police Department reminds community members to lock their vehicles and remove any potential spare keys from visible areas inside or around the vehicle. The Police Department has investigated 78 vehicle thefts since July 1, 41 of which were reported since Sept. 1.
 
Following are some crime prevention tips:

Remove valuables from your vehicle and remove hide-a-keys.
Do not leave your car running and unattended, even for a short time.
Contact the police if you witness suspicious activity, especially activity in and around parking lots or neighborhoods.
When able, park in well-lighted areas.
Install safety features in your vehicle.
Close your windows.

In the event your vehicle is stolen, contact local law enforcement immediately and provide the year, make, model, and license plate number, as well as a timeframe for the theft. It is important to also contact your car insurance provider to make them aware of the theft.

Also, with the holiday season approaching, there is a natural increase in online ordering and doorstep deliveries. Unfortunately, local suspects are also very aware and may turn their attention to your neighborhood. Below are some suggestions to deter package theft:
 
Always track your shipment online.
Request a delivery service hold your package for pick-up at their facility.
Ship packages to your place of employment, if permitted by your employer.
Choose a shipping option that requires a signature for delivery.
Install Wi-Fi enabled cameras to provide alerts as well as motion sensor lighting.
Install a secured mailbox or package lockbox.
Report suspicious subjects to your local law enforcement.
 
— Anthony Wagner for Santa Barbara Police Department.