An iPod and CDs were taken from the unlocked vehicle parked on McDouall Stuart Avenue between 8am and 9am on Sunday.

Whyalla Police Station's Senior Sergeant Steve Sims said it was an individual's responsibility to protect their property.

He said leaving valuable items in a car should be avoided.

"Leaving a car unlocked even for a few minutes is risky and with that if you have items lying about that is visible from outside the car is riskier," Senior Sergeant Sims said.

"It is important that drivers ensure no valuables like mobile phones, iPods and CDs are left in the car.

"There have been times when locked cars have been broken into because valuable items were visible from the outside.

"Unlocked cars are easy targets and it does not take long to lock up."

Senior sergeant Sims said some simple ways to protect your vehicle was to use off street parking if available and to lock it up in a garage if you have one.

He said parking it in well lit areas at night also helps secure the vehicle.

"Steering locks provide an effective visual deterrent but because they take time and effort to fit, they are all too often left on the floor of the vehicle rather than fitted to the steering wheel," Senior Sergeant Sims said.

"Being careful is the simple answer to ensuring that your car is well protected."