RCMP to check on running vehicles, give tips to avoid theft

Police are trying to draw more awareness in preventing vehicle thefts during the winter.

RCMP detachments local and across Alberta are participating in Operation Cold Start next week.

That means Mounties will be on the lookout for running vehicles and verifying whether the keys are in the vehicle, whether the vehicle is locked and will be following up with registered owners to offer information on how to better protect themselves from having their vehicle stolen.  

Bonnyville and Cold Lake detachments are participating in the initiative. If you find one of the attached handouts on your windshield, your vehicle was checked as part of the operation.

Bonnyville RCMP report that over 57 per cent of vehicles stolen within its detachment area in 2022 were left running at the time of their theft. 

They are offering tips to avoid being victim to a theft.

Some preventative tips for all motorists are:

• Use of a remote starter or remain in the vehicle as it warms up;
• Never leave keys in the vehicle;
• Push button equipped vehicles can still be driven without the key present.