Brake lights on in cold weather

[michelndu]

I can't believe no one has had this problem! :13: On two occasions over past month, my rear brake lights (both sides plus high center light) have switched on overnight in freezing weather. I've discovered this in the morning and, luckily in both instances, the battery was not worn down and I was able to start the car. (To be clear, the lights were definitely off after we had last used the car.) Both times, the emergency brake had been set, but releasing the brake did not turn the lights off. In addition, the light control on the steering wheel was in the normal (off) position, but rotating that control (e.g., to auto and back) did not affect the lights, either. In the end, the lights went out by themselves after driving the car for about 20-30 minutes.
Anyone have a clue what to do? As weather is now getting colder more consistently, we don't want to be faced with a dead battery in the morning.
Thanks.