MPD Warns About Leaving Vehicle Unattended

With the cold temperatures and more to come as we head into the winter months of January and February, the Morristown Police Department is reminding you that it is not a good idea to leave your car unattended while you are letting it warm up. It is an invitation for would-be criminals to take your car.

Every year the number of stolen vehicle reports go up as the temperatures go down . While it is not illegal to leave your car unattended and running in your own driveway, this day and time, you are taking a risk…and a very expensive one. So what can you do to keep warm while your cold vehicle is warming up? Remote vehicle starters are widely available which allow you to have your car running without the key in the ignition; some newer vehicles allow you to use your phone to start them. Another option to more safely warm up your vehicle is to have two keys, one key to turn on the vehicle and lock the doors while the car warms up and the second key to unlock the doors when you are ready to leave.

Remember to never leave your car running inside an enclosed area such as a garage. Never leave vehicles unattended in a public place like a gas station or a grocery store, even if you are going to just go in for a couple items. In the short time that you will be out of your vehicle, a thief can get in and your vehicle is gone.

If you do fall victim to this crime, report the theft immediately. The quicker police know about it, the better chance of getting your vehicle recovered.