(Photo: LNN)

By Christian Oldale

Lethbridge Police located 14 unattended, running vehicles during Operation Cold Start

Jan 24, 2025 | 1:23 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The Lethbridge Police Service has concluded Operation Cold Start for 2025.

The initiative is an awareness campaign organized annually by the Alberta Association of Chiefs of Police. In it, police monitor for vehicles that are left running and unattended, and aim to educate the public on the risks involved.

READ MORE: LPS & RCMP team up for Operation Cold Start

From January 20 to 24, 2025, police attended various areas of the city and located 14 vehicles that were running, unlocked and unattended.

LPS is providing the following guidelines for motorists when the weather is cold and snow is on the ground:

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• 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

In cases where the drivers couldn’t be found, pamphlets with tips on preventing vehicle theft were left on the windshield.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now.

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