SALISBURY, N.C. -- 'Tis the season for car break-ins.

More than 12 cars were broken into in Salisbury between Wednesday night and Thursday morning, and police say most could have been avoided by taking certain precautions. 

The Salisbury Police Department is urging residents to make sure to take valuables in before leaving your car...or it could cost you.

“It can cost quite a bit, it’s from breaking the window and having to have it replaced or if the lock gets popped which we see from time to time,” says Captain Shelia Lingle.  “You can never stop everything but you can help yourself out and deter.”

Captain Lingle says make sure you take wallets and purses inside, take in any electronics, hide wires, never leave gifts or packages, hide bags in your trunk, and, of course, lock your car. Captain Lingle also suggests parking in well-lit areas to avoid someone breaking in.​