RCMP: file photo
With temperatures plummeting and vehicles left idling to stay warm, the RCMP unveiled Operation Cold Start. From January 20 – 24, the proactive initiative aimed at curbing a surge in vehicle thefts during the winter months by targeting unattended, unlocked cars left running.
RCMP Staff Sergeant Luke Halvorson spoke with CFWE on what ‘Operation Cold Start campaign is and the education it brings to the public.
In the province of Alberta, 50 percent of car thefts are connected to keys being left in the car or with it running unattended.
The Alberta RCMP offers the following tips for vehicle safety:
- If you can’t park in a garage or driveway, ensure that you’re parking in a visible, well-lit area.
- Visible antitheft devices, like steering wheel locks, can help mitigate vehicle thefts and break-ins.
- If possible, look into automatic car starters as an option to warm your vehicle.
- Never leave your vehicle unattended if the keys are in it.
- Always lock your vehicle’s doors even if you’re parked in a driveway or garage.
- Never leave valuable items like wallets, keys, purses, or even change visible in an unoccupied vehicle.
- Most modern engines do not require a ‘warmup’ period. If your vehicle does need to warm up, do not leave it unattended.
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