Police in the South of the state are encouraging drivers to lock up when they leave their cars unattended.

A spike in car burglaries in the Bridgewater area has seen the theft of purses, wallets and tools.

About 25% of targeted cars have been left unlocked.

“Thieves want any small portable items that they can grab quickly and carry easily,” Acting Inspector Andrew Bennett said.

“If a car is locked and there are no visible items of value then a thief will usually move on to another target.

“Lockable ute canopies and tool boxes are a good start but if a thief can see items of value then they may try to force them open.

“Visible security on a car is also a good deterrent,” he said.

Tasmania Police encourages car owners to:

– Avoid parking on the street for long periods of time, especially overnight;

– Remove all valuable items from your car;

– Secure vehicles with an alarm, steering lock or immobiliser if possible;

– Always keep car doors and windows locked;

– Take tools inside overnight, even if the vehicle has a lockable canopy or tool box;

– Park in a well-lit area if parking on the street overnight; and

– Ensure car keys are kept out of sight.

Burglary and theft are among the most common crimes in Tasmania and most of these crimes are committed by a very small group of prolific offenders who offend as a way of life.

Tasmania Police is continuing its crackdown on prolific offenders through Operation Saturate.

Members of the 14-strong Operation Saturate taskforce are checking that prolific offenders are complying with court-ordered curfews, searching their houses and immediately locating and arresting them after they commit further offences.

Since the start of January the Operation Saturate taskforce has arrested 105 prolific offenders and charged them with more than 300 crimes.