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Dear Resident
As we head into the colder months, many of us will find ourselves defrosting our vehicles before setting off in the morning. We’d like to take this opportunity to remind residents of the risks associated with leaving vehicles unattended while they warm up.
Each year, across the county, we see an increase in what’s known as “frost thefts” — where opportunistic thieves take advantage of vehicles left running with the keys inside. It only takes a few seconds for a thief to jump in and drive away, and unfortunately, insurance companies may not cover the cost if the vehicle was left unattended.
Why this matters:
❄️ Cold weather = slower mornings. It’s tempting to pop back inside while your car warms up, but doing so significantly increases the risk of theft.
🔑 Keys left in the ignition make a vehicle extremely vulnerable. Thieves look for easy opportunities, especially early in the morning when visibility is low and people are in a rush.
📉 Potential financial loss. Many insurers classify this as avoidable and may not pay out if the car is stolen under these circumstances.
What you can do to protect yourself:
Stay with your vehicle at all times while it’s running.
Use de-icer and a scraper instead of relying solely on the heater.
Allow extra time in your morning routine so you’re not tempted to leave the vehicle unattended.
Make sure all windows are fully cleared before driving for your own safety and the safety of others.
We know mornings can be hectic, especially in freezing temperatures, but these small steps can prevent becoming a victim of crime and help keep our community safe.
Thank you for your cooperation and vigilance.
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