Lawrence police are urging residents and businesses in an area west of downtown to watch for suspicious activity because of a continuing burglary problem.

Police have received more than a dozen burglary reports since March in an area bordered by Sixth and 13th streets and Massachusetts and Missouri streets.

Most of the burglaries were to vehicles, according to a police statement. Some of the vehicles were left unlocked, while windows were broken on others. Several homes also have been burglarized, with entry gained through unlocked doors or broken windows, police said.

Police offered these safety tips:

¢ Remove valuables from vehicles. If they must be left in the car, put them in the trunk.

¢ Remove garage door openers from cars parked outside the home.

¢ Keep garage doors locked. Leave exterior lights on.

¢ Be aware of your surroundings and report suspicious activity.

¢ Call police if you notice a slit screen, broken window or open door. Do not go inside your home.

¢ Leave and call police if you are home and think someone is breaking in. If you can’t leave, lock yourself in a room with a phone.