Why car thefts rise as temperatures drop in Arizona

FLAGSTAFF, AZ - While it might be tempting to get a jump on the morning chill by starting up your car to let it warm up outside, police are cautioning Arizonans against it.

Flagstaff police said they see a spike in car thefts when the air turns cold. They say a running car is a simple target.

In the past two months, 19 cars have been swiped. Many victims said they just turned away for a moment.

Police said, even with repeated warnings, people are leaving their cars unattended, idling in the driveway to fend off the cold.

"The vehicle is all ready to go, and they jump in there and get out of there,” said Flagstaff Police Sgt. Jackson. “It takes them about five to 10 seconds to get out of there,"

"[They] run in, grab a cup of coffee, and by the time they come back out, they are holding a cup of coffee in their hand, but no vehicle," said Jackson.

Many drivers say it's common sense to lock your doors, and not invite a thief.

Victoria Balcom counts herself as lucky. The heat in her Chevy runs hot, and keeps her comfortable when the temperature drops.

She waits until she's ready to go to start the car and get the heat going. "My car warms up like a champ,” she said. “It's awesome. If you want to leave your keys in your car, running, and unlocked--you're just asking for it to be stolen."