Think twice clear the ice
Canberra drivers are being reminded that vehicles must be attended when defrosting and have clear windows before moving off.
As Canberra experiences a string of frosty mornings, ACT Policing is reminding drivers that criminals are again targeting unattended idling vehicles.
Detective Acting Inspector Jason Dziubinski from the Proactive Intervention and Diversion Team, said despite annual messages – people continue to leave vehicles unattended.
“Last winter – we recorded at least 21 vehicles stolen while they were outside homes, warming up and defrosting, without the driver present. And already this winter police have received reports of more vehicles being stolen in this way,” said Detective Acting Inspector Dziubinski.
“Only last week we had a defrosting vehicle stolen from the front of a home in Campbell. This vehicle was then used in a string of other serious offences throughout the morning.
“We are again urging drivers to remain in their vehicle for the few minutes it takes to properly defrost the windows. If you need to clear your windows in a hurry - free ice scrapers are available at all police stations.”
Drivers are also being reminded it is an offence and a very risky act to drive with foggy or icy windows.
Senior Constable Aaron Cherry from ACT Road Policing said that all vehicles must have clear windscreens, side windows and rear windows before driving off.
“Modern vehicles are set up to reasonably quickly defrost and demist windows. If you leave the settings on auto – in most cases it is just a few minutes for all windows to become clear,” said Senior Constable Aaron Cherry.
“If you only partially remove the frost, or drive off while there is still mist on the inside of the windows, then you are putting yourself, your passengers and other road users at risk.
“While it is an offence to have an obscured view out of a vehicle, attracting a fine of $205, we would much prefer people did the right thing, waited a few minutes until all windows are clear and then moved off.”
ACT Policing is also aware of cases where offenders are watching homes and keeping records of vehicles left running while unattended, with the aim of returning to steal them in the future.