Rockingham police prompt people to act to stop break-ins

In an effort to prevent car break-ins this summer, Rockingham police are warning beachgoers against leaving valuables in their vehicles.

Rockingham police Acting Senior Sergeant Dayna Rigoir said the intent of Operation Blindfold was to make people think about what they carried with them at the beach and what they left in the car.

"Beachgoers should ask themselves 'do I really need my wallet, phone and valuables while I go for a swim?'," she said.

Act. Sen. Sgt Rigoir said the operation included added patrols along the Rockingham, Safety Bay, Warnbro and Port Kennedy foreshores, and the distribution of City of Rockingham dashboard mats, which should be displayed when valuables were removed from the car.

First Class Constable Daniel Jamieson said most car break-ins occurred at secluded beach carparks near Port Kennedy, Warnbro, Point Perron and the CBH grain terminal.

"I'd advise beachgoers to keep valuables out of sight, or to prove nothing is in the car, leave the centre console and glove box open," he said.

With family gatherings and Christmas functions in full swing, Act. Sen. Sgt Rigoir warned drivers against drinking and driving, especially the morning after a celebration.

"Even if you haven't had a drink for a few hours, the alcohol can still be in your system and if caught can result in a loss of licence, hefty fines and demerit points, which is not something you need at this time of year," she said.

"Drink-driving can also be the cause of other traffic incidents - if you think about your actions, tragedy at this time of year can be avoided."