ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — As the cost of gas prices spike across the nation, police departments are warning drivers to be on the lookout for gas thieves.

>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<

Cases of gas theft are popping up all over Central Florida, according to police.

The thefts are not just happening at businesses. Some thieves are using a sharp tool to puncture the tank on a car to drain the gas.

READ: ‘Sneaky’ thieves stole 1,000-plus gallons of diesel from family-owned Texas station, owner says

It all comes with gas prices continuing to stay high. Florida’s average is slightly higher than the national average right now.

The crimes are a sign of the times. Gas has reached record levels, so when will things get better?

“If oil prices remain at current levels, then I would anticipate gas prices to move a little lower, possibly back to around $4.15,” said Mark Jenkins, a spokesman with AAA. “But things are so volatile right now that, if oil prices spike again, we will see higher prices at the pump as well.”

READ: Lyft to charge riders temporary fuel fee to offset surging gas prices

Jenkins said to purchase your plane tickets for that trip you are planning now, because airlines buy fuel ahead of time.

“Right now, they might be flying with jet fuel that was less expensive, but as that more expensive jet fuel begins rolling into the market, then odds are we’ll start seeing more expensive airfares as we take a look at summer airfares, for instance.”

READ: Driver in Florida falls asleep at wheel and kills 2 men changing tire, troopers say

Safety experts recommend drivers purchase locking gas caps and park in a visible, well-lit area if possible.

Q&A with AAA: Florida gas prices inch lower after setting new record highs (WFTV)

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.

©2022 Cox Media Group