Lock up! Six Cars Broken Into in Merrimac, Mass

Merrimac and Amesbury police join the choir of Seacoast law enforcement with the same message: lock up your car when you get home.

At least six cars were broken into Wednesday night in Merrimac on Carraige Court and School Street, according to Merrimac police. Amesbury police chief Craig Bailey told the Newburyport Daily News a car stolen Thursday was recovered in Rye with items allegedly stolen during break-ins in Kensington.

"We suggest not keeping valuables in your vehicles, lock your vehicles and if you do have camera systems, make sure that they are working," Merrimac police said.

Vehicle Theft Prevention Tips from New Jersey State Police include:

• Ensure your vehicle is always locked.
• Never leave a window open.
• Ensure all valuables are kept out of sight.
• Never leave your vehicle running.
• Never leave your keys in your vehicle.
• When parking, turn the tires toward the curb. This will make it difficult to tow.
• Always use your emergency brake.
• Park your vehicle in a well-lighted area.
• Try to park your vehicle in attended lots. Criminals DO NOT like witnesses.
• When parking your vehicle in an attended lot, always use your valet key.
• Never leave the title or registration in your vehicle when it is unattended. A thief will use these documents to assist in selling your vehicle.
• Disable your vehicle when leaving for extended periods of time, i.e., disconnect the battery.
• Use locking screws on your license plate.

Contact reporter Dan Alexander at Dan.Alexander@townsquaremedia.com or via Twitter @DanAlexanderNH