2 Smash-And-Grab Car Break-Ins Reported In Southbury: Police

SOUTHBURY, CT — Two smash-and-grab car break-ins at the Southbury Dog Park were reported Tuesday night, according to police. Valuables were left in plain view and the windows were smashed on both vehicles.

"Car burglars will seize the opportunity to enter unlocked vehicles," police wrote on Facebook. "Don’t make your car an easy target by leaving your car doors unlocked or in this case valuables left in plain view, even if your car is locked."

Here are some extra tips from police:

• •Always lock your doors.
• Spare car keys should not be stored in or on your car; thieves know where to look.
• Don’t forget to close windows and sunroofs.
• Never leave children or pets unattended in the vehicle.
• Park in a well-lit, well-observed, and well-traveled parking area.
• Consider installing a car alarm or security device and place anti-theft stickers on your vehicle.
• Use your garage - lock your vehicle and the garage door.
• Consider installing a motion sensor light where you park your vehicle.

Take extra precautions to avoid a criminal window-shopping inside your car. Never give thieves a reason to break into your vehicle and steal your belongings.

• Place any property in the trunk before you get to your next destination.
• Do not leave possessions on the passenger seat.
• Never hide expensive possessions under the seat as this is the first place burglars check for stored items.
• Never attempt to cover valuable items left on the seat or floorboard of your car; blankets and articles of clothing present a hidden clue to thieves that items may be underneath.
• Do not leave any important documents in your car that contain your personal information.

Police said to report any suspicious activity as soon as possible.

If your car is broken into or stolen, you can notify the Southbury Police Department at 203-264-5912, or if the crime is being committed call 911.