Gardaí's concern over rise in break-ins to vehicles

AN Garda Siochána has raised fresh concerns over thefts from vehicles.

Over the past number of weeks in Mayo there have been numerous break-ins to cars parked at scenic and secluded locations including lakes and beaches.

Now, however, criminals have started targeting cars parked in housing estates for items including handbags, tools, mobile phones, cash and laptops.

Other vulnerable locations include church car parks, hotel car parks and leisure areas and breaks-in most frequently occur between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.

The following advise has been issued:

1) Lock your cars, whether in your driveway or elsewhere

2) Park in a location with good natural surveillance (busy place) or electronic surveillance

3) Do not leave items visible or covered over on seats

4) If you do not need your laptop or other expensive equipment in your car, leave it securely at home

5) Report suspicious activity

6) Use lit up areas

7) Be conscious of taking your items from your car to your boot before walking away

8) Double check that your car is locked before walking away from it. Don't always depend solely on the remote control feature.

The website garda.ie has also good advice on this type of theft.