Tulsa Police Promoting Safe Ways To Warm Cars During Cold Weather

Tulsa police have a warning for people as the weather gets colder.

They say many people may start their cars and let them warm up unattended, but that’s actually against the law in the city. Tulsa police say many people turn on their cars to let them warm up, then get out and go back inside, but police say that makes it easy for criminals to hop in and take off.

"It’s not smart to leave your car running in the way that it can be stolen," said Officer Craig Heatherly.

Tulsa police Officer Craig Heatherly says many people may not have woken up that day wanting to steal a car but leaving a vehicle running makes it a whole lot easier

“A lot of these people that take advantage of it," he said. "It's a crime of opportunity for them.”

Not only could your car be stolen, officer Heatherly said it’s against the law in Tulsa and you can get a $200 ticket for leaving your car running unattended.

"It is against the law to leave your vehicle running and unlocked," Heatherly said.

Heatherly said with new technology, like remote start, and apps that allow you to turn on your car without having a key inside, you’ll be safe since thieves can’t steal the vehicle.

Heatherly also wants to warn people to hide their things or take them with them because thieves will also take advantage of those easy crimes.

“People leave their purse on the passenger seat, and when they come back, somebody broke their window and the purse is gone," he said.

Heatherly said just to be aware and enjoy a safe holiday season.

“Don’t invite crime into your life," Officer Heatherly said. "Everyone does a lot trying to avoid being a victim of crime.”