Sheriff warns of Dangers of letting car run while it’s not occupied in Winter Weather

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO)– With the winter weather, many drivers may want to start their car and let it heat up before jumping in, but there’s a warning from Law Enforcement about that practice.

Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott says car thieves are targeting idling vehicles.

According to Sheriff Lott, it only takes seconds for a criminal to steal your car. The Sheriff stated that thieves look for opportunities, and during the winter months, this type of crime becomes more prevalent. The Sheriff stated that since Friday, January 15, 2016 though Thursday, January 21, 2016, eight cars have been stolen in this manner.

The Sheriff  says if you must leave your car idling have a remote start installed. You can start your car remotely while it’s locked, it also requires a key be in the ignition before it can be put into drive. This will make it harder for thieves to steal.