FROM PATCHES NEARBY: Thefts Of Catalytic Converters Rising In Pierce County

Authorities across the country, including Gig Harbor, have noticed a recent increase in catalytic converter thefts.

According to the news release issued by Nationwide, thieves are targeting these devices due to the spike in prices of precious metals. Catalytic converters, which contain platinum, palladium or rhodium, can be found underneath cars, and they're used to reduce pollution-causing emissions.

In , there have been at least nine cases this month, and three in the past week, involving catalytic converters, which run from $300 to $1,000 to replace. 

The news release said thieves will look for cars parked in large lots at shopping centers and commuter lots. 

It also said trucks and SUVs are more prone to the theft because they sit higher off the ground. Thieves can slide underneath the car and cut off the converter in less than a minute.

Here are some tips that Nationwide recommends to avoid getting victimized by catalytic converter thefts:

• Park in well-lit areas
• Park near building entrances or roadways
• Engrave your license plate number on the device
• Install a security system for your vehicle

For more information, click here to read the entire news release.