Officials in Mount Vernon are alerting residents about a recent uptick in airbag thefts.

They saw more than a dozen cases this week across the city, according to officials.

News 12 was told this is a problem is happening across the tri-state area.

Police in Mount Vernon say Acuras and Hondas are being hit especially hard.

Rims and tires are also being stolen, according to officials.

Police are urging residents to always lock their cars.

"If you put a steering lock on your vehicle or put on additional security features on your vehicle like alarms, that could deter these individuals," says Officer Samantha Betty with the Mount Vernon Police Department.

Officers will also be increasing patrols.