EVANSTON, IL -  Preventing vehicle thefts is always a priority. The Evanston Police Department handled 10 motor vehicle theft investigations during the month of June alone. Preventing burglary to vehicles is a constant focus for the Evanston Police Department.

Investigations into these incidents reveal they are crimes of opportunity. Vehicles that are burglarized are unlocked approximately 90 percent of the time. Vehicles that are stolen were typically unlocked and had a key in the vehicle. 

The good news is that some simple steps will greatly reduce the chances of your vehicle being stolen or burglarized. Evanston Police provide the following tips to secure your vehicle. 

1. Make sure you take your keys out of your car and lock it.
2. Do not leave valuables visible in your car. If you have to leave valuables in your car lock them in the trunk.
3. You should never leave your car running unattended. 
4. Even if you don't think you have a spare key or fob in your car, double check. Look in your vehicle's interior compartments to make sure there is not a spare key or fob you forgot about.
5. Check the owners manual. Some cars come with a valet key in the owner's manual and the owner is not aware its there. If your owners manual has a valet key, take the key out of the car.
6. Park in a well lit area.
7. If you have a garage, park your locked car in your locked garage.

Vehicle owners can take the extra step of purchasing an anti-theft device but following the above steps will prevent the vast majority of these incidents. If you are the victim of a vehicle burglary or theft within the City of Evanston please report it to the Evanston Police Department at 847-866-5000.