The Department of Education is encouraging drivers to secure their vehicles in school parking lots following a string of vehicle break-ins at five Oahu elementary schools.

The DOE sent out a news release about the break-ins, which occurred during afterschool hours. In each case, vehicle windows were broken and small items taken, including purses, bags, cellphones and laptops.

A spokeswoman said the incidents happened this month at Manoa, Noelani, Wilson, Aina Haina and Waialae elementary schools. Some private schools also reported similar incidents, including Honolulu Christian Preschool.

“Parents are reminded to be vigilant and always remove valuables or hide them from direct sight,” DOE spokeswoman Donalyn Dela Cruz said in a statement. “Although there is normally lots of activity on campuses during afterschool hours, such crimes of opportunity can take place in seconds.”