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Keys in the ignition warning
POLICE are reminding
motorists across Merseyside not to leave their keys in the ignition following a
number of vehicle thefts during the recent cold snap. Opportunist thieves have
targeted vehicles left running but unattended in many parts of the force area.
Most recently, cars left insecure while owners de-iced the windscreen, warmed
the car interior, opened driveway gates or even went back inside their house
have been stolen. All the offences have happened early in the morning, usually
when the owner is preparing to drive to work and has gone back into their house
to get something.
Detective Superintendent Richie Salter said:- "Leaving your car, even for
a few seconds, presents the opportunity to thieves to steal your car. These
criminals are targeting early mornings when people are de-frosting their cars so
do not be fooled that your car is safe left running. Taking shortcuts like this
can leave your property vulnerable and could mean that your insurance is
invalidated. Neighbourhood officers will be patrolling hot spot areas to deter
criminals and raise awareness amongst residents about what they can do to help
stop it.?
Merseyside Police has issued the following advice to avoid becoming a victim of
car thieves:-
► Never leave your vehicle unattended with the engine running. Offenders watch
and wait to see who does this, especially on cold and frosty mornings when
heaters are left on to defrost the vehicle and warm the cabin.
► Consider using a windscreen cover to stop it freezing over in the 1st place.
► Never leave car keys in the ignition or within reach of your front door or
letter box.
► If possible, park in a secure garage overnight or in well lit area outside
your house.
► When locking the car make sure that any security devices are activated and
don't leave valuables on show inside. |
