Police probe thefts from cars, tell motorists to be attentive

Lt. Kurt Bottorff of the Fremont Police Department is issuing a warning about opportunistic thieves in the city. 
 
Bottorff said the First and Howard area has seen a rash of thefts from cars recently. 
 
“Certain people walk down the street and they’ll check for open (car) doors,” he said. “That First and Howard area has been kind of a hotspot so we’re eyeballing that a little closer. We’re having people getting into cars and taking out valuables.” 
 
The lieutenant said the public can help reduce the crimes by following some simple steps. 
 
“We’re asking people to take their valuables out of their car,” he said. “Don’t make them visible and then lock your car. Try to park in a well-lit area if you can’t park in your driveway or if you don’t have a garage to park in.” 
 
The police are also asking motorists to be more aware of children in the streets since schools are out for the summer. 
 
“We’re just asking drivers to pay extra attention to recreational areas like pools, parks and baseball fields,” Bottorff said. “Motorists should also watch for kids on bicycles because they can get in a hurry and shoot out in the middle of the street.” 
 
The spring and summer is also a prime time for motorcycles to be on the road. 
 
“People aren’t used to that right now. Look twice and make sure it is clear before you go out and about because it is just a whole different set of driving skills that are needed during this time,” Bottorff said. 
 
Spring and early summer can also bring severe storms to the area. Bottorff offered some advice on being prepared for inclement weather.
 
“I always stress to people that the sirens are loud, but they aren’t meant to be heard inside,” he said. “If you are in a certain room or area, you may not hear it. You might think it is the siren’s fault, but they aren’t designed that way. They are designed for when you are in your yard or walking. It warns you that  you need to take cover and find shelter.”
 
Bottorff also said to pay attention to the local media. 
 
“They’ll tell you what is coming through and what is going to happen so you can take appropriate action,” he said. “We know that it is that time of the year.”