Police are launching the annual Operation Cold Start campaign. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

LPS & RCMP team up for Operation Cold Start

Jan 20, 2025 | 11:15 AM

Law enforcement agencies throughout Alberta are working to reduce the theft of idle vehicles during the winter.

The RCMP is partnering with the Lethbridge Police Service (LPS), among many other police detachments, for the initiative.

RCMP Auto Theft Unit Cpl. Mike Black says they will be checking on unattended, idling vehicles to see if the keys are left inside, and whether or not they are properly secured. Officers are also participating in educational efforts to teach drivers about how they can keep their vehicles safe.

“Leaving your vehicle running to keep it warm for you seems convenient and it is — not just for you, but also for opportunistic thieves who are looking for vehicles to steal for transportation and to commit additional crimes,” says Black. “Operation Cold Start aims to reduce auto theft by educating Albertans on steps they can take to help keep their vehicle safe.”

Members of the LPS Community Resource Unit will patrol the city between January 20-24, 2025, looking for unattended vehicles that were left running.

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“If the owner cannot be located, pamphlets will be left on the vehicle outlining how to prevent warm-up thefts. This morning officers located a total of four vehicles idling with the doors unlocked,” reads a media release from LPS.

Some tips for preventing vehicle theft include:

• Never leave a running vehicle unattended if the keys are inside
• Use a remote starter whenever possible and keep your vehicle locked
• If you are warming up your vehicle with the keys in the ignition or with a push button start, stay with your vehicle
• Use a steering wheel lock as a deterrent
• Never leave spare keys or garage door openers in or around your vehicle
• Never leave children or pets inside a running vehicle
• Do not leave valuables, including identity documents and bank cards, in your vehicle
• Be aware of your surroundings and report suspicious activity to police immediately
• If you observe a crime in progress call 911

During last year’s campaign, LPS says officers found 138 idle vehicles.