"When the weather is as chilly as it has been, people tend to prioritize warmth over common sense," said Michelle Staton, executive director of the Pennsylvania Auto Theft Prevention Authority. "Whether it's leaving their cars running while they dash into a convenience store for milk or allowing their vehicles to warm up unattended outside their homes, consumers are putting themselves at increased risk for theft."

With the winter weather forecast to continue for the foreseeable future, it is imperative for drivers to "Lock It or Lose It" - lock their vehicles and take their keys - and always follow basic vehicle safety tips, such as removing or concealing all valuables. It is also important to remember that older vehicles can be just as attractive to thieves as newer models. Additional auto theft prevention tips are available on the Auto Theft Prevention Authority's web site.

About the Auto Theft Prevention Authority: Established by the General Assembly (Act 171 of 1994), the Auto Theft Prevention Authority exists to establish, coordinate and fund activities to prevent, combat and reduce automobile theft in Pennsylvania.

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