Car thefts spike as temperatures drop

Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) says people are paying a price for trying to warm up their vehicles in the extreme cold.

The WPS says that over the last 24 hours, as temperatures plunged to well below -20, the number of reports of stolen vehicles in Winnipeg rose dramatically.

The WPS is warning people not to leave vehicles running while unattended. "The Police Service has received numerous reports of stolen vehicles over the last 24 hours. With temperatures falling and wind chill forecast to be in the -40° range, the Winnipeg Police Service once again reminds the public of the risks of leaving vehicles unattended with the engine running."

Police say there are options to give you a warm car that's still in your driveway when you return.

"Many newer vehicles allow the engine to run with the keys safely removed. Steering wheel locking bars also offer a convenient alternative," the WPS says.