Lethbridge Police wrap up Operation Cold Start

The Lethbridge Police Service located more than 50 vehicles left idling and unattended during Operation Cold Start.

The initiative, organized by the Alberta Association of Chiefs of Police, was a province-wide awareness campaign aimed at reducing the number of vehicle thefts. Alberta has the highest per capita auto theft rate in Canada, with about 25 per cent of stolen vehicles in the province left idling and unattended.

During a week-long focus in February, Lethbridge Police found 39 vehicles left idling and unlocked, and another 13 idling but locked. In those instances where the owner was found nearby, police discussed with them the various way they could reduce the likelihood of being victimized by car thieves. When no owner was nearby, a pamphlet was left on the vehicle highlighting tips such as:

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

• Never leave keys inside your vehicle or running vehicles unattended

• Use a steering wheel lock

• Remove garage door openers from vehicles

There were 244 vehicles reported stolen in Lethbridge in 2021, compared with 224 in 2020 and 274 in 2019.