KALISPELL – People may be tempted to start their vehicle car and get it nice and warm before getting inside as our recent cold snap continues.
While a warm car is nice for the owner, running vehicles unattended also draw the attention of car thieves.
Usually, when folks warm their vehicles up they tend to leave their keys in the ignition and the doors unlocked.
Flathead County Sheriff Brian Heino has some advice to keep vehicles and personal belongings safe.
“You know, we’re all getting out there in the mornings to try and warm our vehicles up for a lot of reasons. I think the big one…for reduction [of] theft is to remove your valuables in the evening time specifically, don’t leave your keys in your car,” Sheriff Heino stated.
“Having two sets [of keys], which a lot of the time what we’re doing, is we start the cars and then lock them with another set. It just keeps them a little more secure,” he added.
People are also encouraged to know the make, model and license plate of their vehicles in case they are stolen, so law enforcement can locate the vehicle faster and easier.
Reporting by Maren Siu for MTN News
