Catalytic converter thefts are on the rise. See how you can protect your vehicle.

After multiple catalytic converters were stolen from Columbia County churches, the sheriff's office has released tips on how to protect your property and which vehicles are most at risk.

Sharon Baptist Church in Appling last week filed an incident report claiming a catalytic converter was stolen from a Dodge van parked behind the church. Just days later, the Greater Augusta Apostolic Church in Grovetown filed a report, claiming catalytic converters were stolen from two vehicles and cut on a third.

Two Sawzall blades were found by members of the Greater Augusta Apostolic Church, according to the report. However, there have yet to be any arrests.

What are they and why do people steal them?

Catalytic converters are located underneath vehicles and filter out harmful engine exhaust pollutants, converting them into nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide and water, according to a report from USA Today.

"Well-designed catalytic converters can reduce hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide emissions by about 90%, as well as Diesel Particulate Matter emissions by 25-35%," according to the report.

While the converters are great for environment, they are also valuable to thieves, who often steal and sell the parts. The mechanism is made out of rhodium, palladium and platinum, which can sell for $20,000 per ounce, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau.

While the Columbia County Sheriff's Office could not specify how many catalytic converters were stolen in 2022, nationwide, catalytic converter thefts increased by 325% between 2019 and 2020, according to NICB.

An ongoing problemCatalytic converters stolen from two Columbia County businesses

Evans burglar arrestedEvans woman charged with stealing guns, $25,000 in jewelry from Columbia County homes

Sheriff's office says some vehicles are more at risk

Columbia County sheriff's Maj. Steve Morris said most fuel-powered vehicles manufactured after 1974 have catalytic converters, so there are a lot of cars on the road that might appeal to catalytic converter thieves.

However, Morris said there are specific vehicles that tend to catch burglars' eyes.

"Thieves often target taller vehicles, like pickup trucks or SUVs, because they can easily fit under the vehicle to access the catalytic converter," he said.

Catalytic converters can be stolen in as little as 30 seconds, heightening the appeal for criminals.

Unfortunately for victims, they're not cheap to replace. Universal replacements are less expensive and only run a few hundred dollars. However, newer vehicles may require direct-fit converters, which can cost anywhere from $300 to $2,500, according to AutoZone.

What you can do to deter thieves

Morris said there are various catalytic converter anti-theft devices, shields and alarms currently on the market to help protect people from falling victim to these thefts.

NICB recommends installing a catalytic converter anti-theft device, parking trucks in an enclosed area that is secured and well lit, parking personal vehicles in a garage, and installing motion sensor security lights.

"While lights may not provide complete security, it may make some thieves think twice, and they may opt to leave the area, and your car, untouched," according to NICB.

Muffler shops can also etch your vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number on the converter to help law enforcement track down the parts, if stolen.

This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: How to protect your vehicles from catalytic converter thieves