According to police crime statistics, there were 72 shoplifting charges – a 56 per cent increase on August numbers. 

There were a further 40 unlawful entries – also up on August – and three unlawful uses of cars. 

Mount Isa Police are reminding people to lock up their homes and cars to reduce their chances of falling victim to opportunistic crime.

“Please do not support offending behaviours, keep your belongings yours and lock up your homes and vehicles at all times,” Acting Senior Sergeant Chris Mitchell said. 

He said as temperatures rise, it can be tempting to leave your house open to keep cool but it’s important to remember that this can sometimes invite the burglars in.

Burglars often look for open doors and windows, whilst looking for signs that no-one is home or the risk of being caught is minimal.

Police continue to find vehicles which have been left unattended with windows down, keys in the ignition, spare keys in the vehicle and valuables left in plain sight.

There are a number of things you can do, to help protect your home, which include.

Make locking external doors and windows a habit, even when you are home or out in the yard.

Ensure any doors and windows left open during the summer months, have the necessary security devices fitted.

Take an inventory of all items, including electrical goods, and make sure you record their brand, colour, model and serial number.

Install security sensor lights and fit appropriate locks to all doors and windows, but particularly those hidden from public view.

Police also encourage you to engrave or mark your property with a code of your choice. You can then provide this code to police who will be able to store it on a secure computer system.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using the online form.

You can report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersqld.com.au