Hume Police District officer-in-charge Inspector John Klepczarek said it was important to lock your car and take your keys every time.

“People are still used to not locking their cars,” Inspector Klepczarek said.

“In some cases we’ve had people left their keys in their cars.” Inspector Klepczarek said it was also important for Highlanders to lock their homes.

“Be conscious of where you leave your keys and spare keys in the house,” he said.

“What is happening in other areas is people are getting broken into and their car keys are on the table. A break in turns into car theft.” Inspector Klepczarek said break ins seemed to be more opportunistic these days.

“They can see what’s inside the house,” he said.

“Gone are the days where they used to kick in back doors, now we have such few incidents like that.

“They seem to be on the opportunistic rather than premeditated.”

To report a crime call Southern Highlands Police Station on 4868 1222.