Reminder for motorists in Stockton to secure vehicles when being defrosted
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It comes following a report of a red Ford Fiesta being stolen from a property on Barlborough Avenue shortly before 7am on Thursday 6 February.
Officers are advising residents to not leave their vehicles unattended to prevent them from being stolen or items taken by thieves.
Motorists must also not leave their car unattended when the engine is running.
During the wintery months it is suggested vehicle checks on tyre pressures and levels of oil as well as keeping basic items such as bottles of water and blankets to hand in case of a break down.
Below is a checklist:
- Levels of oil, anti-freeze and screen wash
- Tyre pressure
- Battery
- Bulbs
- Windscreen wipers
- Defroster and heater
- Keeping fuel topped up
Important items to keep in your vehicle include:
- Reflective warning signs
- Warm clothes and blankets
- High-visibility jacket
- Torch and spare batteries
- Jump start cables
- Ice scraper and de-ice
- Food and drink
- Shovel
- Fuel can (empty)
- A road atlas
- In-car phone charger or portable battery charger
Inspector Tony Cross, of Stockton’s neighbourhood policing team, said: “While it may seem tempting to leave the car running while it defrosts, it only takes a minute for thieves to be in the area creating an opportunity to steal items from inside or the vehicle itself.
“It simply isn’t worth the risk and can so easily be avoided.
“I therefore want to take this opportunity to remind motorists to not leave their vehicle unattended or unlocked.
“If you suspect someone is acting suspiciously in the area, please get in touch with us.”
Information relating to the car that was stolen can be provided by calling Cleveland Police on 101 or visiting our website and quoting reference number 021597.