Lafourche Parish Sheriff Craig Webre is reminding vehicle owners to always lock unattended vehicles, especially overnight. Valuable items, including handguns, should also be removed and stored safely inside your home.

“Nearly every vehicle burglary over the past few years has occurred due to vehicles being left unlocked,” said Sheriff Webre. “Criminals are looking for easy targets and often attempt to burglarize many vehicles in one outing. It is extremely rare for a burglar to break a window or pry a door open to enter a vehicle unless they can clearly see something of value inside. By removing valuables and locking your vehicle, you dramatically decrease the chances your vehicle will be burglarized or stolen.”

To ensure your vehicle is fully secure, double check doors to ensure automatic locks are working correctly. Ensure all windows are fully rolled up. Never leave a car unattended while the engine is running. Additionally, consider installing exterior lighting and surveillance cameras on your property, including where you park your vehicle. Lights will act as a deterrent, but cameras can help identify suspects if anything is stolen.

“Be smart about crime prevention,” said Sheriff Webre. “While there is no way to guarantee you will not be a victim of a crime, following these simple routines will greatly reduce your risk of being victimized.”

The Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office will continue to promote the “9 p.m. Routine” through its official social media outlets. This national awareness campaign began at the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office in Florida in 2016. The “9 p.m. routine” encourages citizens to remove valuables from their vehicles, lock their vehicles, and lock their home each night at or before 9 p.m. each night before going to bed.