As the weather turns colder Hertfordshire Constabulary is warning drivers not to leave vehicles unattended with the keys in the ignition, whilst waiting for it to defrost.
One vehicle has already been stolen this year after the keys were left in the ignition when there was an overnight frost appeared.
Inspector Paul Lawrence, of the Crime Reduction Unit, said: “The weather has been pretty mild over the last month, but colder weather appears to be on the way. Defrosting the car in the mornings isn’t a pleasant task and we’ve seen in the past that leaving the car running whilst you go back inside where it’s nice and warm can give thieves any easy opportunity.
“Your insurance companies may not cover you if your vehicle is left insecure or the keys are left in the ignition. Those few extra minutes in the warm, could end up costing you thousands of pounds. Never leave your car unattended with the engine running.”
The frosty weather also makes driving very hazardous, but you can stay safe and protect your vehicle by doing the following:
• ALWAYS ensure your windscreen and other windows are fully de-iced and de-misted before moving off. Driving without clear visibility is not only illegal but puts you, pedestrians and other road users at risk. It’s worth the few minutes it takes to prepare your car properly.
• Ensure your wiper blades are in good condition and make sure you have plenty of washer fluid.
• Slow down – make sure you adjust your driving to the conditions of the road. Sometimes it is about driving under the legal limit. Try to keep steering smooth and avoid braking sharply where possible.
• Check your tyres are correctly inflated and have good tyre tread (and remember the absolute minimum legal limit for cars is 1.6mm).
• Be smart – stay with your vehicle and never leave it unattended with the keys in the ignition, even for a second, when de-icing the windows. Thieves are opportunistic – don’t give them a free ride.
• Register your sat nav – you can register your sat nav and other valuables for free at: www.immobilise.com. It helps police return any recovered items to you if they are lost or stolen and serves as a deterrent to potential criminals – as well as helping police to catch those responsible.
For more advice on how to keep your vehicle safe and secure, please visit www.herts.police.uk/crimeprevention.
For further information contact Dan Atkinson, Senior Press & PR Officer, in Corporate Communication on 01707 354581.
