The stolen vehicle recovery (SVR) specialist says that leaving the car unattended on frosty mornings could prove a costly mistake and urges motorists including fleet drivers not to leave an open invitation for thieves to steal their cars.



’Frosty mornings, means people leaving their cars unlocked, unattended with the engine running to clear frosted windows which is an absolute “gift” to some car criminals,’ said Stuart Chapman, police relationships manager at TRACKER. ‘Whilst some of the “frost-jacking thefts” are opportune, many are planned. Organised gangs will target specific makes and models that are parked out overnight. They will keep watch on the vehicles when the weather is cold waiting for the owner to leave it unattended.



‘Many drivers don’t realise that police may even prosecute them, if their car is stolen while unattended with the engine running. They may also find that insurance companies can refuse the claim for the theft, leaving owners seriously out of pocket. 



Chapman concluded: ‘We’re urging car owners to use common sense, especially on cold mornings, when thieves could be looking for an opportunity to steal a car from under your nose.’

TRACKER’s Winter Security Advice 
to Drivers:

• Never leave the keys in the ignition, even if you are just stopping quickly 


• Never leave your car running unattended when de-icing 


• Always lock and secure your vehicle


• Don’t leave belongings on show, lock them in the boot or take them with you


• Do not leave technology items on display, such as satnavs, mobile telephones or DVD players. Take them with you or lock them in the boot.


• Never leave car documents or spare keys inside the car – this only makes it easier for thieves to sell it on


• Keep doors locked and windows up when driving


• Park in busy or well-lit and attended car parks near CCTV cameras


• If you have a garage, use it to park your car


• At home, don’t keep keys in a place where they can be seen or accessed from outside


• Consider fitting a tracking device to help police recover your car if it’s stolen