Car left to warm up stolen from a driveway in LaSalle
A LaSalle resident has learned a hard lesson about leaving the keys in the car while trying to warm it up in the cold weather.
On Wednesday, Jan. 18, at 7 a.m., the LaSalle Police Service received a report that a vehicle was stolen from a driveway in the 1200 block of Outram Avenue.
The vehicle was left running to warm up while the owner was inside.
The theft occurred within minutes of starting the vehicle.
The stolen vehicle is a red, 2010 Hyundai Accent bearing Ontario licence plate CPWX 844.
Police say there have been numerous recent reports of vehicle thefts of this nature across Windsor and Essex County.
LaSalle Police Senior Constable Terry Seguin says when you leave your car running you are creating an opportunity and making it easy to steal something of value.
"I don't know necessarily that somebody is waiting in the bushes to jump out and take a car that's running. That being said, when you take away the opportunity, crime is reduced," he says.
Seguin says they understand some people want to warm their vehicle but unless they have a remote car starter, they're creating an opportunity for thieves.
"Get in your car, wait for it to warm up and go with it, otherwise you may come out to an empty driveway," he says.
To protect your vehicle and reduce the likelihood of theft, police recommend the following:
1. Stay with Your Vehicle: If you need to warm up your car, remain with it while the engine is running. This simple step can deter potential thieves.
2. Use a Remote Starter: Consider investing in a remote starter system, allowing you to start your car from the comfort of your home while keeping it securely locked.
3. Install a Steering Wheel Lock: A visible deterrent like a steering wheel lock can discourage thieves and make it more difficult for them to steal your vehicle. Beware that these types of devices may be easily defeated by a determined or savvy thief.
4. Park in Well-Lit Areas: When possible, park in well-lit and populated areas, reducing the likelihood of theft.
5. Be Vigilant and Report Suspicious Activity: Keep an eye out for any suspicious activity in your neighbourhood and report it promptly to local law enforcement.
6. Install video surveillance cameras around your property as a crime deterrent and as a means to assist in any investigations.
If you have any information about any of these recent thefts, please contact the LaSalle Police Service at 519-969–5210. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 519-258-8477 or online at www.catchcrooks.com.