With the cold weather there is a rise in car thefts. This is due to unattended cars warming up. Car thieves call these cars “huffers” and they are a favorite target for them. Leaving your vehicle running and unattended is an invitation for your vehicle to be stolen

Tips to help reduce your chances of being the victim of auto theft.

Always Take Your Keys. Never leave them in the car. Keys are tempting to thief.

Always Lock Your Car.

Park in Well-lighted Areas. Over half of all vehicle thefts occur at night.

Park in Attended Lots. Auto thieves do not like witnesses and prefer unattended parking lots.

Never leave your car running even if you will only be gone for a minute. Vehicles are commonly stolen at convenience stores, gas stations, ATM's, etc. Many vehicles are also stolen on cold mornings when the owner leaves the vehicle running to warm up. Leaving your key in an unattended motor vehicle is a crime in some states.

Completely close your car windows when parking. Don't make it any easier for the thief to enter your vehicle.

Don't Leave Valuables in Plain View. Don't make your car a more desirable target and attract thieves by leaving valuables in plain sight.

If You Have a Garage, Use It. If you have a garage, take the time to use it rather than parking outside where your vehicle is more vulnerable.