Morro Bay police are warning residents of a rash of car burglaries over the past several months including some 16-18 overnight Feb. 18-19.

MBPD Sgt. Derrick Porter said “The majority of the reported thefts have been occurring in South Morro Bay [Morro Heights] and surrounding neighborhoods. These thefts have been occurring in the early morning hours between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m.”

The cars have mostly been left unlocked. “The Morro Bay Police Department would like to remind the citizens of Morro Bay as well as San Luis Obispo County, that this type of crime is preventable. It takes as little as 10 seconds for a thief to steal something from your unlocked vehicle.”

Police recommend drivers always close the windows and sunroof and lock the doors of your vehicle. Also, activate the car alarm if you have one. Never leave valuables in plain sight or better yet, take them into the house with you.

“Thieves are looking for your electronics that are easy to grab,” said Sgt. Porter. “Thefts of power tools are also on the rise, so please secure any tool boxes on your vehicle or remove the tools if possible. Never leave the keys in your vehicle, even for a short time, and treat them as valuables.” And as always, if your car should get broken into, report it to the police right away.