As temperatures plummet across the UK, a dangerous and costly seasonal habit is putting thousands of motorists at risk of having their cars stolen.
The Costly Winter Morning Ritual
Every year, during the cold winter months, drivers commit the same critical error. In a rush to clear icy windscreens and warm up their vehicles, they leave their cars unattended with the engines running. This act, often perceived as a harmless time-saver, creates what experts describe as the perfect opportunity for opportunistic thieves.
Motoring specialists at Dick Lovett have issued a stark reminder to the public. "Leaving your car running while unattended, even for just a minute, creates the perfect opportunity for thieves to strike," a spokesperson cautioned. "They can jump in and drive away in seconds - sometimes without you even knowing."
How 'Frost-Jacking' Thieves Operate
This type of crime, sometimes called 'frost-jacking', sees criminals patrolling residential streets on cold mornings, specifically looking for vehicles left idling on driveways. The assumption that a car is safe in its own driveway is a dangerous one.
"Many frost-jacking incidents occur when people leave their car running in their driveway, assuming it’s safe and secure, but you can never be too sure," the Dick Lovett expert continued. Thieves can act with startling speed, bypassing locks or quickly breaking a window if the doors are locked, before making a swift getaway in the already-warmed vehicle.
Essential Security Advice for Winter Drivers
The fundamental rule is simple: never leave your vehicle unattended with the ignition on. If you need to defrost your windscreen or warm the interior, you must remain inside the car.
Additional security measures recommended by experts include:
- Always lock your doors, even if you are only stepping away for a moment.
- Choose parking spots that are well-lit and in clear view of others, as visibility deters criminals.
- Be particularly vigilant at home, at work, and while running errands during the winter period.
"Thieves will patrol the streets looking for easy opportunities, so don’t make it easier for them," the spokesperson concluded. With vehicle thefts spiking during cold snaps, this seasonal warning could be the key to preventing a devastating loss for drivers nationwide.
