Greetings Midtown!
As winter's chill sets in, many drivers are tempted to let their vehicles warm up before hitting the road. After all, nobody wants to get behind the wheel of a cold car, especially when it's freezing outside. However, this seemingly harmless habit of idling your car to warm it up can be an invitation for thieves. In fact, leaving your car running unattended can significantly increase the likelihood of it being stolen. Here's why you should avoid warming up your vehicle in cold weather and some tips on how to better secure it.
The Dangers of Leaving Your Car Running Unattended
While it might seem like a good idea to let your engine idle for a few minutes on a chilly morning, it can quickly turn into a dangerous practice. The following statistics show just how common car theft is, especially when a vehicle is left running:
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Thieves are quick: A car thief can steal a vehicle in just 30 seconds. When you leave your car running, especially with the keys still inside, you're essentially handing them an open invitation to drive away.
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Increase in theft during winter: Cold weather increases the temptation for car thieves to steal idling vehicles. When temperatures drop, car owners are more likely to start their engines early and leave them running in the driveway or on the street.
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Vehicles left running are prime targets: According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), about 56% of vehicle thefts happen because the keys were left in the vehicle or it was left running. This statistic skyrockets in colder months when people are trying to warm up their cars without being mindful of the potential risks.
Why Is It So Easy for Thieves to Steal Running Vehicles?
Leaving your car running might seem harmless, but it provides car thieves with an easy opportunity. Modern vehicles often feature electronic systems that allow them to start with just the push of a button or via a remote start system. This makes it incredibly easy for someone to hop in and drive off, even if they don't have the physical key on hand. Even older models with traditional keys can be stolen with a quick hot-wiring job.
Moreover, many car owners leave their vehicles unattended for several minutes, which gives thieves plenty of time to make their move. This is especially common when drivers go back inside to grab something or warm up before heading out, unaware that their car has become a target.
How to Secure Your Vehicle and Prevent Theft
The good news is that there are several steps you can take to minimize the risk of having your car stolen. Here's how you can make it harder for thieves to steal your vehicle, even in cold weather:
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Never Leave Your Car Running Unattended The most effective way to prevent theft is to never leave your car running unattended, even for just a few minutes. If you need to warm up your car, stay inside and monitor it until you're ready to drive. If you're in a rush, consider using a remote starter that allows you to start the car from inside your house or garage but still keep it under observation.
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Use a Steering Wheel Lock A visible deterrent, like a steering wheel lock, makes it much harder for thieves to drive off with your vehicle. Even if they manage to get inside, a steering wheel lock will slow them down and might make them reconsider stealing your car.
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Invest in a Car Alarm and Immobilizer Make sure your vehicle is equipped with an effective alarm system. Modern car alarms are loud and can deter thieves from attempting to steal your car. Additionally, installing an immobilizer that disables the engine or other key functions can make it much harder for thieves to drive off.
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Park in a Secure Area Whenever possible, park your car in a well-lit, secure area. Public places with surveillance cameras or private driveways are far less likely to attract thieves compared to dimly lit or secluded spots. If you have a garage, always park your vehicle inside to prevent it from being targeted.
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Install GPS Tracking Systems If your car is stolen, having a GPS tracking system installed can help authorities locate it quickly. Many modern vehicles come with this feature built-in, or you can add an aftermarket system that will help you track your vehicle in real time.
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Lock Your Doors and Keep Your Keys with You It may seem obvious, but locking your car doors and taking the keys with you is a simple yet often overlooked security measure. Even if you're just stepping away for a minute, never leave your keys inside the car.
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Don't Leave Valuables in Plain Sight Make sure to remove or hide any valuable items inside your car, such as electronics, bags, or expensive gadgets. Thieves are often attracted to vehicles with valuables visible through the windows. A clutter-free car might reduce the temptation for thieves to break in.
While it might seem convenient to start your car and let it warm up during cold weather, this practice significantly increases the risk of your vehicle being stolen. By being aware of the dangers and taking proactive steps to secure your car, you can reduce the likelihood of falling victim to auto theft. Remember, keeping your vehicle safe requires constant vigilance--don't make it easy for thieves to drive off with your prized possession. Stay warm and stay safe this winter!
Thanks and Happy New Year!
Capt. Shannon Blackamore - Midtown Police District