KITSAP – As temperatures drop during the cold winter months, the numbers of motor vehicle thefts begin to rise.

Even though many Kitsap motorists may not have heard of “warm-up thefts,” those who like to steal vehicles know about it, according to the Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office.

During colder months, many Kitsap County residents start their vehicles and leave them idling to warm-up for several minutes before they start their morning commute. It’s often early enough that darkness still envelopes the neighborhood. The cars are typically left unlocked while the driver steps back inside their warm home.

Thieves count on two things:

• Most people don’t like getting into a cold vehicle.

• Drivers are creatures of habit and routine – they’ve done this many times without any problem.

Unattended vehicles left with motors running are quick targets. It’s easy for criminals to take advantage of this seemingly innocuous routine and steal a car. The only effort expended is to cruise through neighborhoods and look for vehicles with engines running and with no one behind the wheel. Within a matter of seconds the thief can drive the car away, with no forced entry, hotwiring or carjacking required.

These types of thefts typically take place in residential areas along the curbs, or even in the owner’s driveway. Thieves also are known to watch convenience stores and wait for a driver to leave a car running for a moment.

The solution to this problem is apparent: Don’t provide criminals with an easy opportunity to steal a vehicle. The best course of action is to bundle-up and remain with the vehicle while it warms up, or to at least lock the idling vehicle using the valet key or remote start.

– Edited by Chris Tucker