Upper Macungie Township police say some teens are particpating in "garage hopping" to steal beer from open garages.

Community Relations Officer Pamela Mathias says many suburban residents have a refrigerator in their garage with beer and wine.

Some residents neither close the overhead doors nor lock the exterior garage door in the evening and teens check the neighborhoods for these garages.

What the teens do not realize is entering someone's garage is a felony burglary and has major legal consequences.

Police advise residents to:

Always lock vehicles, even if leaving for only a short time.

Never leave keys or spare keys in the vehicle.

Do not leave valuables, such as purses, wallets or cash, visible in the vehicle.

Park in a well-lighted area, if possible.

Use the vehicle's alarm, if it has one.

Completely close vehicle windows when parking.

When parking in a garage, lock the garage door and the vehicle.

Pass the word. Remind friends, neighbors and family to always remove valuables and lock their vehicles.