As temperatures drop and frosty windscreens become a regular chore, motorists are being cautioned against leaving their cars running unattended to warm them up. This is common practice is not only illegal in some cases but also leaves your vehicle wide open to theft - and can void your car insurance.

The crime known as “ Frost Jacking” is usually an opportunist crime when thieves  see an unattended unlocked car, typically with the keys in the ignition, as drivers wait elsewhere to thaw out frosted windows and warm up cars on cold winter days.

 Car owners need to know that leaving their vehicle unattended on frosty mornings can not only make them an easy target for thieves but they also run the risk of their insurance company not covering the theft. If time is an issue, please invest in a good ice scraper and de-icer, or get yourself a windscreen cover to protect your car windows overnight and keep them frost free.

THE LAW

It is crucial for drivers to properly de-ice and demist all windows before setting off.

Rushing through this process can lead to partially defrosted windscreens, which is not only dangerous but also against the law.

Rule 229 of the Highway code mandates that all snow and ice must be cleared from windows before driving. Failure to comply can result in a £60 fine and poses a significant risk to other road users.

If your car is stolen, you should report it to the Police by using the 101 number. Remember to have the registration number, make, model and colour of your vehicle to hand. The Police will inform DVLA and give you a crime reference number which you'll need to provide to your insurance provider.