Shropshire motorists warned about vehicle theft as colder weather arrives
Opportunist thieves will target cars left unattended with engines running during icy weather, Shropshire motorists were warned today.
The warning has been issued by a senior police officer with the onset of colder conditions.
Detective Inspector Sarah Wagstaff, said: "I am reminding drivers not to leave their vehicles with engines running to defrost windscreens and to warm the inside prior to leaving home.
"The number of unattended vehicles stolen in this manner has consistently risen year on year."
She said motorists were taking a big risk by ignoring the warning. "Thieves will search residential areas for a likely target by driving around. When they spot a vehicle with its engine left running on a drive or outside a home, it's there for the taking.
"One person will be dropped off, gets into the target vehicle and simply drives away.
"Every year, we see a series of such thefts during the winter months. Many of the vehicles are never recovered, and some - especially high value cars such as Mercedes,
BMW and Audi - may be shipped overseas."
DI Wagstaff said: "These days, vehicle security makes it difficult to steal a car unless you have the keys. Thieves know this and see frosty mornings as an opportunity.
They get up early and look for cars to steal.
"While it may be tempting to nip back into the home while the windscreen is clearing, do stay with your vehicle. It is also worth remembering if your car is stolen when keys have been left in it, you may find your insurance will not cover you."
She added: "Our advice is quite clear. Never leave your car insecure when you are away from it."
