A rash of thefts from vehicles in late February led the South Lake Tahoe Police Department to issue a reminder Thursday about the importance of locking vehicles.

The department received nine reports of thefts from a vehicle between Feb. 20 and 25, according to a press release. Six of the reports were in the Tahoe Island area. The majority of the vehicles were reportedly unlocked.

In addition to the thefts, two vehicles were reported stolen on Friday, Feb. 24, according to the department.

A 2010 Nissan Altima stolen overnight from the 1100 block of Herbert Avenue was eventually recovered.

Authorities are still looking for the second vehicle, a 2009 silver Subaru WRX with a Nevada license plate 746LLW. The vehicle was stolen from the 800 block of Michael Drive. It has a dent on the driver side front bumper as well as mounts for a roof rack.

SLTPD offered the following tips for preventing thefts from vehicles:

Install a vehicle alarm or mechanical lock for the steering wheel or ignition.

Lock the doors and leave the windows rolled up.

Activate any alarms or anti-theft devices.

Keep valuables out of sight and/or remove them from the vehicle. Expensive items in full view invite theft even if the vehicle is locked.

Do not leave money, checkbooks or credit cards in the vehicle at any time.

Anyone who sees the missing vehicle or any suspicious activity is asked to call 530-542-6100.