This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2015, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

There has been a 30 percent rise in automobile thefts in Salt Lake City from the beginning of this year when compared to the same period last year, police reported Tuesday.

In addition, there has been a 60 percent increase in thefts so far this year when compared to the average over the past five years.

"This is an alarming trend and it is important for the community to be informed," according to a press release that added that police were doing everything possible to address the issue.

There are between 3300 and 3500 car thefts a year in Salt Lake City — an average of about ten a day, police said.

Many are cars that have had the keys left in them or have been left running. This often happens while warming up in the garage or driveway, or left parked in front of a store, like a convenience store, for short periods of time.

The most common vehicles taken are Hondas, Nissans, and Subarus, from manufacture years beginning in the early 90's to the mid 2000's. These vehicles are often targeted because the ignitions can be started fairly easily with a shaved down key.

Recommendations from police:

— Do not leave a spare key inside the vehicle.

— When using a key hiding system, place the key somewhere other than the fuel cap area or under the wheel wells.

— Even when cars are inside a garage, do not leave keys in the vehicle.

— Thefts can often be prevented by using theft prevention devices such as the "Club", or such similar device, or by replacing old and worn ignitions.

— Activate car alarms, and keep your car locked.

— Finally, if you see something, say something.

To share information about this or other criminal activity with the Salt Lake City Police Department, please call (801) 799-3000. To remain anonymous, text the keyword TIPSLCPD plus any relevant information to 274637. Reference: case #15-75420.