As the temperatures drop here in Omaha many drivers are tempted to let the car run and heat up, before driving to work or school. But police are warning people stay with your car.
The Council Bluffs Police Department says they're seeing more cars stolen that are left running to warm up. Authorities say don't do this unless you have a remote starter, and don't leave valuables in vehicles.
Stereo West Autotoys says they install about 1,000 remote starters a month during the cold weather.
They say recent news reports like on Tuesday when a car with three children inside was stolen from the county jail, are another reason people come in.
"Remote start allows you to start vehicle without having the key in the car or in the ignition so if someone were able to jump in the vehicle while you were loading packages or not in the car they can't take the car because the car would literally shut off as soon as they hit the break,” said Chris Burroughs, General Manager at Stereo West Autotoys.
If your car is stolen and you are able to track it down yourself Council Bluffs Police say don't block it in. They say it typically leads to damage to the vehicle, and most of the time the criminals aren't caught. Contact 911 and stay on the line to provide assistance to responding officers.
