9 Unlocked Cars Stolen With Keys Inside In January: Northbrook PD

NORTHBROOK, IL — With an uptick in stolen cars in Northbrook and the North Shore this winter, police are asking residents to secure their property and take basic crime prevention steps.

"It will have a tremendous effect on reducing crime in the area," Northbrook police said in a recent social media post.

According to police, there have been at least nine stolen vehicle reports in Northbrook this past month. In each, all vehicles were unlocked, and the stolen vehicles had keys left inside.

"While Northbrook police officers routinely patrol neighborhoods and businesses, we need your help," the post continues.

The Northbrook Police Department released the following safety tips:

• Remove valuables from your car or place them in the trunk.
• Lock your vehicle no matter where it is parked (even if you only intend to leave the vehicle for a short period).
• Take your keys with you.
• Keep your garage door closed.
• Report suspicious behavior to 9-1-1.