CLEARWATER, Fla. — Clearwater police are taking a stance against car break-ins and adding a little incentive for residents.
Police are handing out pamphlets of how to keep vehicles secure from car burglaries along with a voucher to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
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Their first stop was at the Wellington Apartments along Drew Street — that's close to Spectrum Field.
The goal is to educate drivers of the importance of locking their vehicles. It's part of a series of educational collaborations. In the past, Clearwater police have partnered with the Tampa Bay Rays and Philadelphia Phillies offering tickets with a message.
"We are trying to find creative ways to remind residents just how important it is for them to lock their car doors and secure their valuables," said Lt. Michael Walek of the department's Criminal Investigations Division. "We are very thankful to the aquarium for helping us get this message out."
Last year, more than two dozen vehicles were broken into. It resulted in five stolen firearms.
Tampa police are doing the same. Last month, they put report cards on driver's vehicles letting them know how well their cars were secured.
Tampa police say car burglaries had increased earlier this year.
Authorities are reminding people simple tasks like locking your car, taking valuables out and parking in a well-lit area can prevent a headache and potentially dangerous situation.
