By rdnewsNOW staff

Preventative Measures

Red Deer RCMP remind drivers to not leave idling vehicles unoccupied

Jan 27, 2021 | 4:27 PM

With the return of cold temperatures, Red Deer RCMP are reminding drivers not to leave their idling vehicles unoccupied.

Mounties say the reminder is to help reduce vehicle thefts, as in the past 48 hours, six stolen vehicles were reported to Red Deer RCMP where the keys were left inside as the vehicle idled.

Police describe these types of vehicle thefts as crimes of opportunity and are fully preventable. Furthermore, RCMP says data shows that stolen vehicles are often used to carry out additional crimes in the community.

Whether parking outside your home or in a commercial area, drivers are encouraged to use caution as it only takes a few seconds for someone to get into an unlocked vehicle and drive away.

Alberta RCMP estimates that about 33 per cent of all vehicle thefts occur while a vehicle is idling and unoccupied.

Last seen March 31

Missing: Eugenie Headman, 66, of Maskwacis

15h ago

mayor hopes to meet housing minister this month

Alberta demands Ottawa back off on housing funding stripped from Red Deer

Apr 02, 2026

Last seen Jan. 15

Missing: Courtney Cattleman, 17, of Maskwacis

Apr 02, 2026

RCMP have the following safety tips to prevent vehicle theft and protect yourself:

• Never leave keys in an unlocked, unoccupied vehicle.
• Avoid idling an unoccupied vehicle.
• Use a steering wheel lock to deter thieves.
• Never leave spare keys or garage door openers in or around your vehicle.
• Never leave children or pets in an idling vehicle.
• Never leave a wallet or purse inside an idling vehicle.

The public is encouraged to report suspicious activity to Red Deer RCMP by calling the non-emergency complaint line at 403-343-5575.

If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the P3 Tips app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.