Really? I have to protect my back seat in my car? Yes, if you have a SUV with three seats.

The latest stealing spree involves two or three people taking the third seat out of a SUV in less than a minute --- and running! The thieves sell the seats for $1,000 each on CraigsList or to a salvage yard. The cost to the consumer to replace the stolen seat at a dealership could be as much as $4,000.

Locking your car is not enough. Thieves can break in quickly day or night --- and in your own driveway. Police are advising people to engrave their SUV’s vehicle identification number onto the bottom of the seat in several places so police will know who owns the recovered seats. Without that identification they are unable to return the seats to the owners.

Also, put a cable bike lock on the seat. It will help deter the crooks.

In general, remember your vehicle is a potential target for thieves. Cold days are coming soon. Don’t start your car and leave it running to warm up while you go back inside for a few minutes. Golf clubs and other expensive items are magnets for the dishonest to break into your car and take.

Christmas shopping days are also close. Crooks love this time of year.

Take time to protect your precious items. It could save you lots of dollars --- and emotional stress.