Swansea Police warning residents after multiple car break-ins/thefts

SWANSEA, Mass. (WLNE) — The Swansea Police Department said residents should take precautions after multiple car break-ins and thefts which occurred between July 3 and July 10.

The department said that seven incidents had occurred over the time period.

Twenty-five residents also reported break-ins.

The department said that the following steps can be taken by residents to protect themselves and their property:

• Park in well-lit areas.
• If you have home surveillance, park your vehicle within view of the cameras.
• If you have a garage, use it.
• Leave exterior lights on overnight.
• Do not leave valuables inside your vehicle.
• Lock your vehicle doors.
• Enable your vehicle alarm, if you have one.
• If you hear a car alarm, don’t ignore it.
• Enable GPS functions to help with recovery, if your vehicle is stolen.
• Record important information from your vehicle, including VIN, registration and insurance numbers. This may help aid in the recovery of a vehicle if it is stolen.

Police also said to call 911 for any suspicious activity on or near their property in the nighttime or early morning hours.