Persons who lock them themselves out of their vehicles can no longer contact area law enforcement agencies for assistance.

Sheriff Robert Dierks and Coffeyville police chief Joe Humble announced Monday their immediate discontinuation of unlocking vehicles for motorists. The Independence and Cherryvale police departments have previously discontinued the policy unlocked vehicles. Only the Caney Police Department continues to assist motorists with their unlocked doors.

Dierks said his decision to stop unlocking locked vehicles was prompted after concerns were raised with the newer vehicles that come equipped with side door air bags. Those side air bags can cause serious injuries or death to the officers who unintentionally tamper or damage the bags in an effort to unlock the doors, he said.

Insurance companies also are advising to not unlock locked door because of concerns over unintentional damage inflicted on doors, Dierks said.

Dierks said he understood that law enforcement officers have traditionally assisted with motorists with unlocking their locked vehicles. However, he said the risks and liabilities associated with unlocking those locked doors should be handled by professionals who are trained with that skill.

“If we cause damage to the vehicle, then the taxpayers pay for it,” said Dierks. “And, I don’t think the taxpayers should be responsible for that.”

The only exception to unlocked locked doors is when a child has been locked in the vehicle or if the situation involves a life-threatening matter, he said.