Protect your car - and watch where you put the keys.

Be careful to protect your car and its contents this holiday period.

Police have advised that there have been numerous reports of vehicles being stolen and or broken into and property removed from vehicles in a number of suburbs around our local area.

Whilst Chermside West is not specifically mentioned, be aware that thieves have so far targeted a number of nearby suburbs, including Stafford, Zillmere, Geebung, Aspley, Nundah and Wavell Heights.

It is easy to just drop the car keys on a nearby table when you arrive home, but it is important to hide them out of sight as police report that offenders are breaking into houses and then locating keys for the vehicles inside the house or even using keys that have been left inside the vehicles.

Police also report that there has been an increasing trend where offenders are prying open the garage doors to steal cars and property.

A number of victims have apparently left their vehicles unlocked and some with the car keys left inside the vehicle, allowing offenders to then easily remove personal property and steal their vehicle.

Victims have left valuable personal items such as wallets, handbags, GPS’s, computers, sunglasses, personal documents and cash in their vehicles, which are then stolen.

The majority of stolen vehicles are used for joy riding, transport, or for the use in another crime.

Police advice is to use off street parking if you have it. If possible, park behind locked gates or in a locked garage. Parking on the street greatly increases the risk of theft.

Remove temptation and always lock doors and close windows when your vehicle is unattended, even when its parked in a secured locked garage.

Consider using a steering wheel club or lock, an electronic engine immobiliser and car alarm.

If you must leave valuables in your motor vehicle keep them out of sight.

And don't leave your car keys where they can be easily taken if someone gains access to your home.

For more tips on protecting your vehicle, you can download a Vehicle Security Fact Sheet from NHW Queensland by clicking here.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using the online form 24hrs per day.

You can report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers, a registered charity and community volunteer organisation, by calling 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppersqld.com.au 24hrs per day.

(Source: based on information in "Cars stolen, North Brisbane" article posted on MyPolice North Brisbane on 21 Dec 17)