Alberta RCMP and law enforcement partners mark Operation Cold Start
As temperatures drop and snow continues to fall, the Alberta RCMP is partnering with law enforcement agencies across the province for Operation Cold Start. From Feb. 1-7, 2026, Police will work with the public to reduce theft of idling vehicles during winter months.
Police will be checking on unattended, idling vehicles to see if keys are in them, and whether they are properly secured. Officers will also be educating the public about how to keep their vehicles safe.
While vehicle theft impacts vehicle owners, it also has a greater impact on the community. Costs of insurance rise as a result, and stolen vehicles are often used to commit further crimes or are sold to unsuspecting Albertans.
Whether you’re a new or experienced driver, follow the below tips to help keep your vehicle safe:
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.
“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.”