The Office of Parking Services wants to share a few security tips with employees, contractors and visitors who park on the Capitol Campus to help them avoid being a crime victim.

A recent increase in the number of vehicle break-ins and thefts in campus parking garages has prompted the reminder.

In a couple of recent incidents, privately owned and state-owned vehicles were broken into and bicycles stolen from underground bike cages during regular work hours.

In other instances, break-ins took place when employees left vehicles or bikes parked in garages overnight.

Here are some tips to help enhance security in the parking areas:

• When leaving your vehicle lock all doors, roll up windows and close the sunroof.
• Don’t leave valuables, such as laptops, cell phones, GPS systems, in plain view.
• If you have anything of value in your vehicle, put it in the trunk or out of sight before arriving at work.
• Lock bikes inside the cage and make sure the cage door is locked when you exit.

Washington State Patrol provides security in campus parking garages and lots. If you notice any suspicious individuals or unusual occurrences in campus garages or lots, call 911. If you feel the situation doesn't warrant a 911 call, then call the Washington State Patrol non-emergency number at (360) 596-4555.

The Office of Parking Services manages about 6,000 spaces in garages, lots and along streets of the Capitol Campus.