Car thefts may be more likely to happen in the summer months. Consider the Dallas-Fort Worth area, for example. Car thefts have risen more than 6% in recent years—but the majority of investigations take place from June-August, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB).

Fleets should be aware that the most commonly stolen cars nationwide are the Honda Civic, Honda Accord, and Ford S series.

Fleet drivers should be reminded to take precautions and safeguard their vehicles from thieves. The NICB and other experts offer the following advice:

• Lock your doors: Even if it’s a quick stop, it is wise to lock the doors of your vehicle because sometimes it only takes a moment for a car to go missing.

• Park in well lit areas: The more visible your vehicle, the less likely it is to become a target.

• Store items away: After parking, never leave items on the seat or anyplace where they are visible. Laptops, cellphones, and even items you view as of little value can serve as temptations and are an invitation for theft.

Watch a video with vehicle security tips from NBCDFW to learn more about ways to protect your vehicle from thieves.