Five vehicles stolen while idling in Gatineau, Que. in recent weeks

Exhaust coming from a vehicle's tailpipe. (Tyler Fleming/CTV News Ottawa)

Gatineau, Que. police are warning drivers to keep a close eye on their vehicles if they need to be warmed up, after several idling vehicles were stolen in recent weeks.

Police said they have investigated five reports since mid-November of vehicles that were stolen while being idled with the doors unlocked.

The vehicles were eventually found and returned to their owners, and at least one person has been arrested.

Police, however, are reminding drivers to be cautious.

"When you have to start your vehicle's engine because it is affected by frost or ice, it is recommended that you stay close to it so that it remains under your constant surveillance," police said in a news release, originally in French. "Make sure to lock your doors when the vehicle is running. If your vehicle is not equipped with an ignition key and a push button, use a second set of keys to lock it."

Police are also reminding drivers that Gatineau has an idling bylaw.

"Remember that, according to the municipal bylaw of the City of Gatineau concerning traffic and parking, no one may let the engine of a road vehicle idle for more than three minutes in any 60-minute period, unless a vehicle is affected by frost or ice for the time required to make it safe to drive."

If you witness or are the victim of a vehicle theft, call 9-1-1.