Unusual methods employed in 'Lock it or Lose it' campaign

LAKELAND (FOX 13) - "Lock it or Lose it." It's a well-known slogan, but apparently people in Lakeland have not been doing it. At least, the locking up part, and they're paying the price.

Car burglaries are up 25-percent in Lakeland. More than 900 people were ripped off last year. They lost cell phones, laptops and other valuables.

"I think it comes down to, people are easily distracted," said Lakeland Police Department spokesman, Sgt. Gary Gross. "They're on their cell phone. Text messages. They get out, they hit the wrong button on the remote."

That's why police launched the "Lock it or Lose it" reminder in some unexpected places.

A car with a florescent traffic cone on top says "Look Inside."

When you do, you see a number of posters with "Lock it or Lose it."

"It got our attention," said Connie Wood. "I think it would get anybody's attention. You're going to see if it is good, bad or ugly."

Along with the car that will show up at a different parking lot around town every few days, the campaign is using public service announcements, social media and posters in coffee shops and stores to get the word out.