LEWISTON — Police say vehicle burglaries are on the rise and combating the problem comes down to the same old advice — if you’re away from your car or truck, lock it up.

Since early June, police have handled more than 40 reports of vehicle burglaries— typical for the summer months.

The thefts have been reported all over the city and they tend to happen overnight.

Some break-ins occur in parking garages during business hours, police say. Thieves are targeting anything of value, including GPS units, cellphones, tablet computers, cash and credit cards.

The common factor in all of these burglaries, investigators say, is that the vehicles were left unlocked.

Lewiston police are offering the following tips:

* Be sure your car is secured;

* Don’t leave valuables in sight within your vehicle;

* Park in a well-lit area, if possible;

* Use security lighting around your home;

* Secure your home, including garages;

* Report suspicious activity to the 911 center.