'Puffing' Vehicle Theft Warning Issued In Lower Bucks Co.

LOWER BUCKS COUNTY, PA —There's a lot of huffing going on about puffing.

The Bucks County District Attorney's Office is warning residents to protect their vehicles from thieves who see exhaust fumes more easily during the winter.

Police said with frigid temperatures, it's tempting for residents to let their vehicles warm up as they stay inside their homes. But thieves will easily take advantage of a puffer.

A puffer is a car that’s left running, unlocked, and unattended, police said.

Police said the puff of an exhaust pipe is like a smoke signal to a thief.

The Bucks County District Attorney's Office is offering some tips to prevent puffing thefts:

• Start your car with a remote starter that requires the car to be locked.
• Approach your car with caution, scanning the area and walking quickly, in case someone is eyeing your return.
• Do not sit and text in your vehicle. Get moving.
• Do not leave your vehicle puffing at a mini-mart or convenience store. It's a quick and easy target.

Police said that newer models are desirable for joy rides or for organized theft rings and transport to other areas or overseas.

Older models are very valuable for the parts. Your car is probably worth more chopped to pieces than intact.

"Freeze out the thieves," police said. "Stay safe and protect your ride."

Watch the surveillance video below of thieves in Allentown stealing a minivan left puffing: