New figures show that one-third of all vehicles broken into in residential areas had been left unlocked by the owner.
Figures from the Garda Analysis Service show that 8,571 vehicles parked in residential areas were broken into between 2015 and 2017.
Of those, 2,824 were unlocked.
The most common location for theft
The most common location for thefts was in driveways. Half of the recorded thefts happened between 12am and 7am.
On average, over €340,000 worth of property is stolen from vehicles each year. Stolen property included cash, laptops, tools, jewellery and sports equipment.
Gardaí are appealing for all vehicle owners to ensure they lock their vehicle no matter where it is parked. Do not store valuables in the car, but if you need to, kepp them out of site.
Sgt Kevin Courtney from the Garda Crime Prevention National Centre of Excellence said, “Wherever you park your car or van, we would always advise you to take your property with you and ensure the vehicle is locked, alarmed and parked in a secure, well-lit location.”
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