People are being urged to make sure their car doors are locked and their car keys are secure following an increase in vehicle thefts.
Police have issued the warning to people in St Helens following a spate of car thefts throughout the area in the lead up to Christmas.
They are now increasing patrols across parts of the borough and are working to engage with members of the community and provide advice on making sure people are securing their homes and valuables.
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The move comes following an increase in car thefts across in the Parr and Newton-le-Willows area of St Helens in the last week.
As well as making their presence known in hot spot areas, they have advised all residents to lock their vehicles and send any doorbell of CCTV footage of offenders their way.
Improved security features ,such as locks, CCTV and alarms is said to make a big difference in deterring potential thieves, while also removing keys from windows or doors.
In a statement on their Facebook page, St Helens Police wrote: “We have been made aware of a recent increase in vehicle crime across the Parr area.
“We are aware that potentially a number of victims at this time may not have reported this and could have vital CCTV footage showing the offender.
“We would like to encourage the public to contact us to report on Merpolcc.”
In a second statement police said they have increased patrols in the area of Newton-le-Willows.
Police have informed locals that many offences occur when the car owners have left their vehicles unlocked.
They said: “This can happen by mistake as the owner thinks they have locked them before heading in doors for the night.
“Best way to avoid this aside from the obvious is to remove all valuables from your vehicle so it becomes an unworthy venture for the thieves.”
Anyone with information can contact police on 101 or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
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