In the wake of 35 reported thefts since Jan. 1, the Leesburg Police Department is reminding residents to lock their unattended vehicles.

Almost all the thefts involved vehicles that were unlocked, authorities said.

"The types of things taken from these unlocked cars ranged from loose change and paychecks to Ipods and laptops. To make matters worse, four firearms were taken from cars as well," Master Police Officer Christopher Tidmore said in a statement.

These thefts are easily prevented by locking cars and not leaving valuables unattended. It only takes a few moments to take valuables from an unlocked car. It only takes a second to lock a car, Tidmore said.

Authorities are asking firearm owners to transport the weapons responsibly and never leave them in an unoccupied vehicle.

Anyone with information about these incidents should call the Leesburg Police Department at 703-771-4500. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call the Leesburg Crime Line at 703-443-TIPS (8477) or use TIPSUBMIT from a smartphone or a computer. Links to TIPSUBMIT can be found at http://www.leesburgva.gov/index.aspx?page=135