BUFFALO, N.Y. — As winter approaches, the Buffalo Police Department is taking the opportunity to remind people to not leave their cars running unattended.
The police department is launching their annual effort to prevent car thefts. Members of the BPD's Neighborhood Engagement Team and walking patrols will be distributing pamphlets with tips on how to prevent your vehicle from being stolen.
“With the holiday shopping season coming up and the weather turning colder, now is the perfect time to remind people not to leave their cars running and unattended while they make a quick stop somewhere,” said BPD Deputy Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia.
BPD reports that a majority of auto thefts are the result of people leaving their car unattended while it is running or leaving the keys inside the vehicle. While leaving a car unattended while running is a violation of the New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law, BPD's goal is to educate people on the risk of having a car stolen.
tips include:
- Never leave an unattended child in your car;
- Parking in well-lighted areas;
- Locking your auto’s doors and closing windows;
- Installing a car alarm or anti-theft device;
- Install a remote car starter
- Locking valuables in the trunk or keeping them somewhere out of sight; and
- Hiding car keys when at home, as many stolen vehicles are taken by friends and family
“It may seem harmless to leave your car running and unattended while you run into the store or gas station, but it only takes seconds to steal your car. Don’t make it easier for someone to drive off in your car that is already running and left unattended, ” Deputy Commissioner Gramaglia concluded. “Turn your car off, lock it, and take the keys.”