Operation Cold Start, a province-wide initiative aimed at reducing cases of auto theft during the colder months, when often vehicles are stolen while they are left idling. While it can be tempting to start your vehicle and leave it running to ensure it is warm before you set our on your drive, it only takes seconds for thieves to take advance of the opportunity to steal a vehicle.

“Auto theft is a serious national problem that threatens public safety and continues to affect our local communities,” says Sid Kingma, Director, Western Canada, Équité Association – a not-for-profit organization that partners with law enforcement and Canadian insurers to fight insurance fraud and protect Canadians through advanced analytics, intelligence best practices, and coordinated investigations.

To further assist Albertans, below are some tips to help keep their vehicles safe:

• Use a remote starter or stay with your vehicle as it warms up

• Remember that push button equipped vehicles can still be driven without the key present.

• Never leave your keys inside your vehicle

• Don’t leave a running vehicle unattended

• Never leave children or pets inside a vehicle

• Use a steering wheel lock

• Keep your vehicle locked at all times

• Remove garage door openers from your vehicle