Cold weather an opportunity for auto thieves
By Brendan Miller on January 9, 2024.
The cold weather has arrived and police are reminding motorists not to leave a vehicle unattended while warming it up. The Medicine Hat Police Service has partnered with other law enforcement agencies across Alberta to launch Operation Cold Start. The crime prevention initiative aims to reduce the number of warm-up auto thefts that occur during winter months. Police suggest installing a remote starter and staying within eyesight of your vehicle while its running, and don’t leave kids or pets in a vehicle while it’s warming up. Other ways to deter thieves include using a steering wheel lock and never leaving spare keys or garage door opener in or around your vehicle. “A cold car is better than a stolen car so as the temperatures drop if you need to warm up your car and you don’t have a remote starter, make sure you bundle up and stay with your vehicle until you’re ready to drive away,” says Traffic Sgt. Stacey Fishley. Police say thieves often use stolen vehicles to commit other crimes or victimize other residents in the city. If you witness a crime in progress or vehicle theft please call 911. 9-8
