With temperatures dipping below zero, the Grande Prairie RCMP would like to remind residents to be cautious this winter season when starting and letting their vehicles warm up unattended.

Grande Prairie RCMP warn residents to never leave a running vehicle unattended with the keys inside, even if the doors are locked. A window could be easily broken, and a thief could have full access to your vehicle.

To avoid vehicle theft, a remote car starter could be used, but if that is not possible, an alternative is to dress warm and wait with your vehicle while it warms up.

Other ways to protect your vehicle is to remove all valuables, use a steering wheel lock, remove garage door openers and spare keys, never leave children or pets in an idling vehicle, and park in well lit areas.

It only takes seconds for someone to get into an idling vehicle and drive away.

Information provided by the Grande Prairie RCMP