The Loveland Police Department would like to warn the citizens of Loveland about the dangers of leaving your vehicle unattended with the motor running. When people do this, they increase the chances that they may be the victim of motor vehicle theft. Although experience has taught us that thefts of unattended and running motor vehicles occurs with much greater frequency in the winter months and early morning hours, these types of thefts can happen at any time of the year and any time of the day.

Several vehicles have been stolen while people warm them up. Vehicles have also been stolen when the drivers have left them running while they go into a convenience store or business. There have been cases where parents have left their children in the vehicle unattended and the vehicle was then stolen.

It is unlawful to leave your vehicle unattended with the motor running. The criminal charge is C.R.S. 42-4-1206, Unattended Motor Vehicle. It is a class B traffic infraction for this offense.

Here are some Auto Theft Prevention Tips:

• Never leave your car running unattended.

• Always lock your car.

• Never leave any keys in the car, even a spare set.

• Never leave valuables in plain sight.

• Always park in well-lit, high-traffic areas.

• Get windows, doors and fenders etched with the VIN.

loveland_officer• Consider installing a tracking and recovery device.

• Check out www.lockdownyourcar.org for more prevention tips.