Operation Cold Start kicks off Sunday across Alberta

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on January 31, 2026.

Mounties in the region are partnering with law enforcement agencies across the province during the annual public awareness campaign aimed at reducing thefts of idling vehicles during the winter months.

Operation Cold Start runs from Feb. 1-7 across the province. During this time police will be actively checking on unattended, idling vehicles to see if keys are in them and whether they are property secured.

Brooks and Bassano RCMP members will be among officers who will also educate members of the public about how to keep their vehicle safe.

Mounties say vehicle thefts not only affect owners but also the community by resulting in rising costs for insurance. Police also say stolen vehicles are often used to commit other crimes, or sold to unsuspecting buyers.

“Leaving your vehicle running to keep it warm can be convenient for thieves looking to steal transportation to commit additional crimes,” said Staff Sgt. Luke Halvorson, community safety and well-being unit. “Operation Cold start aims to reduce auto theft by educating Alberta’s on steps they can take to help keep their vehicle safe.”

Police provided the following tips to drivers:

– If you can’t park in a garage or driveway, ensure 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.