Hertfordshire Police issue warning after thieves target defrosting vehicles
The force are also reminding people that leaving a vehicle unlocked with the keys in the ignition can invalidate your insurance
Motorists in Hertfordshire are being warned not to leave their cars unattended while defrosting, as police report concerns over opportunistic thefts during colder mornings.
Hertfordshire Police issued advice following recent overnight temperatures dropping below zero, which they say make defrosting vehicles an easy target for thieves.
Detective Superintendent Ant Alcock, from East Local Policing Command, advised motorists against leaving vehicles unlocked or engines running while defrosting.
"No one enjoys sitting in a freezing car whilst the windscreen is defrosting on a cold morning, but leaving it unattended with the engine running makes it an easy target for criminals," Alcock said.
"Unfortunately, there are unscrupulous individuals out there who will be on the look-out for these opportunities on icy mornings.
Leaving a vehicle unlocked with the keys in the ignition can also invalidate your insurance."
Police also emphasised the need for drivers to fully clear their windscreens before setting off, highlighting the risks of obscured vision to safety.
Failing to do so could lead to a £100 fine and three penalty points for careless driving.
For more serious or contested offences, fines can increase up to £5,000 alongside nine penalty points and even a driving ban.
Police also shared tips for safely defrosting windscreens:
Make sure windscreen wipers are turned off before starting the engine to avoid damages.
Use the car’s warm air blower and remove any snow from the vehicle.
Scrape and apply de-icer to clear windows, but avoid using boiling water as this can crack windscreens.
Drivers were also encouraged to prepare for icy mornings by covering windscreens with blankets or specialist protectors the night before.