Fort McMurray RCMP are reminding everyone not to leave their vehicles unattended or unlocked with the keys in the ignition.  

Through Jan. 31 to Feb. 6, RCMP participated in a province-wide initiative called “Operation Cold Start”.  

While officers in the RCMP were out on patrol they kept an eye out for unattended idling vehicles, to determine if they were locked and or had keys in the ignition.  

Over 100 vehicles were checked within the city and owners were educated in the various ways they can keep their property safe. 

The RCMP listed some helpful tips to help keep your vehicles safe: 

• If possible, look into command start options as a means to warm your vehicle 
• When starting your car, or allowing the engine to warm up prior to driving, ensure that you are in the vehicle 
• Never leave valuable items like purses, wallets, keys or change in an unoccupied vehicle 
• Always place keys to vehicles in a safe place, out of plain sight and in a secure location 

• Lock vehicle doors all the time, even if you are parked in your driveway or garage at home 
• Never leave your vehicle unattended if it is running or the keys are in it.

The RCMP stated that around 25% of stolen vehicles in Alberta are stolen while idling, especially during the cold winter months, even here in Fort McMurray.