What should you do when your vehicle is left unattended?

When a vehicle is left unattended, it is important to apply the parking brakes and turn off the engine to ensure safety and security. Applying the parking brakes helps prevent the vehicle from rolling away, especially on inclines or uneven surfaces. Turning off the engine reduces the risk of the vehicle catching fire or being involved in an accident caused by an accidental movement.

Leaving the engine running, as suggested in one option, poses a danger of theft and unnecessary emissions and does not provide any security benefits. Checking for parking fees, while important in some situations, does not directly address the immediate concerns of safety and security when the vehicle is left unattended. Locking the doors and removing the keys is a good practice, but it is not as effective as the combination of applying the parking brakes and turning off the engine to ensure that the vehicle remains stationary and secure.