Vehicle-Related Break-Ins On The Rise In Middletown: Cops

MIDDLETOWN, CT — Middletown police have issued an alert about a recent rash of vehicle-related break-ins.

"We have recently seen an uptick in vehicle break-in attempts throughout the city," police said. "We'd like to remind our residents and those visiting Middletown to take the steps necessary to prevent this from happening to you."

Police offered several tips:

• Do not leave valuables in plain view in vehicles.
• Do not keep cash, credit or debit cards inside of vehicles.
• Conceal valuables before, not after, you park.
• Lock all doors, and completely close all windows and sunroofs.
• Do not leave vehicles running unattended.
• Park in areas that are well lit, and not secluded or obscured by larger vehicles.

Additional tips to keep your home safe include:

• Install adequate exterior lighting with motion activated lights.
• Install video surveillance system with cameras dedicated to driveways, walkways and garages.