Tasmania Police is working to help people protect themselves from motor vehicles offences following an increase in motor vehicle burglary and stolen motor vehicle offences across the state.

Police are currently working to target offenders across the districts and are conducting additional patrols at times and locations where crime analysis shows vehicle offences are occurring.

Police are engaging the community around crime prevention and have also released a series of educational videos on social media, “Don’t Give Them a Chance”, to help spread the word.

According to the latest statistics, there have been 346 more motor vehicle burglaries and 110 more motor vehicle stealings reported across the state, compared to the same time last year.

“While we’re out there working hard to prevent and investigate crime, we also need the public’s help,” Commander Tony Cerritelli said.

“We don’t want anyone to have valuables stolen from their car or their car damaged in a break-in, nor do we want to see their vehicles stolen.

“Thieves are opportunistic and by taking away the opportunity they can be deterred.

“They might try the handle on a car door and if it’s locked they may quickly move on to another car.

“Thieves want a quick and easy entry and will usually move on quickly if they find closed windows and locked doors,” he said.

“An open window, unlocked door or valuable items left in clear view are too much of a temptation for many offenders to ignore.  Don’t extend that opportunity.”

Police tips for vehicle offence prevention:

• Don’t leave valuables in sight. If your car looks empty thieves may not bother trying to break in.
• Lock your car doors and make sure all the windows are up. Make it hard for thieves to enter.
• Park your car in a driveway or well-lit area at night. Being easily seen may deter offenders.
• Install a security device, such as an immobiliser, if your car is older than 10 years. Cars older than 10 years are easier to break into and easier to steal.

Information can be provided anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au