Alberta RCMP participating in Operation Cold Start to prevent vehicle theft

Jan 30, 2026 | 6:00 AM

Alberta RCMP are once again partnering with local law enforcement for Operation Cold Start.

As temperatures drop, law enforcement agencies across the province will be checking on unattended idling vehicles to see if their keys are in them, and whether or not they are secured.

“Leaving your vehicle running to keep it warm can be convenient for thieves looking to steal transportation to commit additional crimes,” says S/Sgt. Luke Halvorson, Alberta RCMP Community Safety and Well-being Unit. “Operation Cold start aims to reduce auto theft by educating Albertans on steps they can take to help keep their vehicle safe.”

The Alberta RCMP is offering tips for vehicle safety:

If you can’t park in a garage or driveway, ensure that you’re parked in a visible, well-lit area.
Visible anti-theft devices, like steering wheel locks, can help mitigate vehicle thefts and break-ins.
Know your vehicle’s security settings. If investing in an automatic car starter to warm your vehicle, be aware of whether your vehicle can be driven without keys present. Some vehicles with push starts can be driven without keys.
Never leave your vehicle unattended if the keys are in it.
Always lock your vehicle’s doors, even when parked in a driveway or garage.
Leaving your vehicle idle and unoccupied puts all your cargo at risk, including wallets, keys, garage door openers, documents with personal information, loose change, purses, shopping items or even children and pets.
Most modern engines do not require a ‘warm-up’ period. If your vehicle does need to warm up, do not leave it unattended.

Operation Cold Start runs through the month of February.

by Nathaniel Leigh