Park service warns tourists, visitors of increase in car break-ins

Visitors and drivers are being warned to be on the lookout for vehicle burglaries in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, the National Park Service announced Wednesday.

The break-ins have been increasing in the area, especially in the Marin Headlands and along Conzelman Road in Marin County, park service officials said.

The area, which has access to hiking and sightseeing, is being targeted because it is popular with tourists.

The thieves are looking for visitors traveling with luggage, although any vehicle can be burglarized, park service officials said.

National Park Service Law Enforcement Officers will increase patrols in the area and will be staffing safety checkpoints through the holiday season, according to park service officials.

The checkpoints will be located along Conzelman Road entering the Marin Headlands, park service officials said.

Visitors and drivers are advised to take valuables out the vehicle, even when leaving only for a short period of time.

Any suspicious activity should be reported to law enforcement by calling emergency dispatch at (415) 561-5055.