BELOIT, Wis. — The Beloit Police Department is taking an extra step to combat vehicle theft.

During the city’s National Night Out event next Wednesday, police will give out free steering wheel locks to the first 100 residents who own a Kia or Hyundai with a model year between 2015 and now.

These particular vehicles have a design flaw that makes them easier to be stolen, and the city has seen a spike in car thefts in recent months. Last week, police recommended owners of the cars take extra steps to prevent thefts.

RELATED: Beloit police recommend steering wheel locks as Kia, Hyundai thefts continue

Residents trying to get a free lock will need to bring their registration paperwork to the event. Beloit kicks off National Night Out at Riverside Park on August 3 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

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