PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. (WWSB) – Pinellas County authorities are warning residents after four firearms were stolen from unlocked vehicles in just two nights, a string of thefts they say was preventable.<\/p>\n
Officials stressed that leaving a firearm in a vehicle\u2014especially an unlocked one\u2014creates an easy target for thieves and can put dangerous weapons into the wrong hands.<\/p>\n
Deputies say the best way to prevent these thefts is simple: bring guns and valuables inside.<\/p>\n
They also urge residents not to leave anything in plain view that could appear valuable\u2014even if it isn\u2019t. A bag left on a seat, for example, can be enough to attract a burglar.<\/p>\n
Some drivers avoid locking their doors out of concern that a thief will just break a window. But deputies say that\u2019s unlikely in many cases in Pinellas County\u2014and that most car burglars are checking door handles and moving on quickly.<\/p>\n
If a vehicle is locked and there\u2019s nothing visible inside worth taking, authorities say many thieves will simply try the next car.<\/p>\n
Authorities recommend:<\/p>\n
Do not leave firearms in your vehicleRemove valuables (and anything that looks like it could hold value)Lock your car doors every timeIf you must transport a firearm, secure it properly and take it inside when you arrive<\/p>\n
With four stolen guns now unaccounted for, deputies say the message is clear: bring your guns and valuables inside and lock your doors.<\/p>\n
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