Police in Bonney Lake are taking an active role in warning shoppers about car prowls.

This holiday season police officers and volunteers in orange vests are patrolling parking lots, on the lookout for valuables left in cars that might be potential targets for criminals looking for a quick score.

If they see something worth stealing, or an unlocked door or another invitation to thieves, police are leaving flyers on windshields warning the driver that had they been an actual criminal instead of a cop, their car probably would have been broken into.

“It’s meant to just be a reminder to the citizens that things left out in the open are an invitation for thieves,” said Bonney Lake Crime Analyst Laura Miller.

Miller is spearheading the program at the Bonney Lake Police Department after meeting with a counterpart in Puyallup, who have had a similar program for several years.

“We’ve been seeing an increase in vehicle prowls and I was concerned about it,” Miller said.

According to Miller, car prowls are mostly crimes of opportunity. A thief, seeing an item on a car seat can quietly shatter a car window in seconds using everyday items and make off with your belongings.

“It happens so quickly,” she said. “The thieves, they need that opportunity to thrive.”

Miller said car prowlers look for technology items such as GPS units, iPods, phones, laptops and cameras, as well as other items such as purses.

“You would not believe how many people leave purses in their cars,” Miller said.

Along with warning drivers who may become victims, Miller said the police are also using a little positive reinforcement, leaving notes on cars that are secure and safe as well.

According to the police, shoppers should always park in well-lit areas and be sure to stow out of site any valuables. They also remind shoppers to close all windows and lock all doors.

Miller also said that shoppers going from store-to-store should be sure to put new items in the trunk to prevent them from being stolen.

Miller also said residents should be sure to keep a copy of the serial number for items like a GPS unit, so police can better track items, which are usually taken to local pawn shops within a few days.

But more importantly, Miller said drivers should use common sense and make sure not make their car attractive to criminals.

“If you can avoid it, don’t leave it in your car, period,” she said.