CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – Traditionally, during the late spring and summer months, law enforcement generally sees an increase in property crimes.

The targets of opportunities increase in the summer since many families go on vacations, children are out of school, and families spend time outside and leave doors unlocked or garages open.

So far in 2017, there have been 214 vehicle burglaries and approximately 60 percent have involved unlocked vehicles. Some of the items taken from the unlocked vehicles have been money and firearms.

These simple crime prevention tips can help you decrease your chances of becoming a victim:

Keep cars locked at all times.

It’s a good idea to keep home doors locked at all times even when you’re inside. While working outdoors, if you can’t see a door to the house or garage door, keep it closed/locked.

Windows partially open can be easily pushed open unless there is some sort of dowel, screw, or something which will prevent the window from being fully opened. Also, if you have window AC units, use a dowel to secure it in place or even consider removing it while you are on vacation.

If you have an alarm, use it.

Social media isn’t always a good idea. Share your vacation when you arrive back home, otherwise would-be thieves have a good idea when to break in.

Prepare your home for leaving. Stop the mail, newspaper, or have it picked up. If you don’t have a house sitter, try to make the home look like there is someone there. Use automatic timers to turn on lights.

Have someone you can trust check on your house while you’re gone.

Don’t leave power tools in the yard unsecured. That also applies to bikes, scooters, motorcycles, etc. They can be an easy target for someone to take and go.

Summer is a prime time for scams with salesmen who show up at your door or someone offering yard work, landscaping, paving, or household repairs. If you need work done, find someone reputable.

Trim the shrubbery. Tall shrubbery can hide a thief’s entry into your residence.

If you see suspicious activity, call 911.