From January 20 to January 24, the St. Paul and Bonnyville RCMP will participate in Operation Cold Start, an initiative designed to reduce vehicle thefts caused by idling, unlocked vehicles.
The proactive campaign aims to educate the public on the risks of leaving vehicles unattended while running and provide tips to prevent auto theft.
RCMP officers will patrol the area, checking for idling vehicles left unlocked or with keys inside. They will offer educational materials and advice to owners, emphasizing the importance of securing vehicles during winter months.
Last year, the Bonnyville RCMP investigated 171 vehicle thefts, with approximately 50 percent involving vehicles left running with keys inside. The thefts not only inconvenience owners but often lead to further criminal activities, posing a significant risk to public safety.
The RCMP have offered tips to help prevent auto thefts. Park in well-lit, visible areas if a garage or driveway is unavailable. Use anti-theft devices like steering wheel locks, install automatic car starters to warm vehicles safely, and never leave keys inside an unattended vehicle.
Always lock you vehicle, even in a driveway or garage, avoid leaving valuables like wallets or purses visible inside your vehicle and stay with your vehicle if it needs warming up, as most modern cards don’t require long warm-up periods.
S/Sgt. Sarah Parke of the Bonnyville RCMP noted the impact of last year’s efforts. “Last year, Bonnyville Detachment members noted 90 vehicles idling with keys inside during the five-day operation. We’ll be out in force again January 20-24 in the early morning hours, checking on idling vehicles and handing out information pamphlets where applicable.”
Through education and enforcement, Operation Cold Start aims to reduce vehicle thefts and enhance safety across St. Paul, Bonnyville, and surrounding communities.
