Following a recent increase of reported vehicle break-ins and thefts in the city, the Fishers Police Dept. is reminding residents of various theft-prevention and safety tips.

According to releases from FPD, six cars were broken into in the overnight and early morning hours of Aug. 18 and 19 near 136th Street and Marilyn Road. Between then and Aug. 22, FPD officers responded to 60 complaints of suspects entering vehicles in the city.

Car windows were broken to gain access in some instances, but FPD stated the majority of the crimes involved unlocked vehicles, and valuables were taken in 25 of the reported incidents.

Fishers police want to remind residents of its “Lock it, Hide it, Keep it” educational initiative, which encourages citizens to be proactive in locking vehicles and hiding valuables out of sight in order to safeguard and keep possessions.

“I would like to remind all of Fishers residents to protect themselves and their property at all times. Nothing is more important than your safety,” Police Chief George Kehl stated. “We are using this program to promote personal safety tips and to give you advice on how to protect your property.”

The Fishers Police Dept. believes the majority of the city’s vehicle break-in crimes could be prevented by drivers implementing the following safety tips:

• Never leave your vehicle unsecured, even for a short time. Thieves only need a few seconds to open an unlocked door and steal valuables.

• Secure valuables in the trunk of your vehicle. Thieves will often take the time to look into windows before choosing the target of a break-in, and unsecured items such as purses, cell phones, computers, GPS devices and audio systems are often targets.

• Park inside your garage if you have one. If you have to park in the street, avoid dark or isolated areas and remove your garage door opener from sight.

• Install or activate an alarm system for when your vehicle is unattended.

• Don’t leave spare keys attached to the outside of your vehicle.

• Park in open, well-lit and populated areas near your destination. Avoid parking near trucks, vans, dumpsters or other objects that obstruct visibility and provide hiding places. Avoid parking near strangers loitering or sitting in vehicles.

• Turn off your engine, roll up all windows, lock all doors and take your keys with you, even during quick stops.

• As always, call 911 if you see or hear anything suspicious.