Central Alberta drivers are being warned not to leave unattended vehicles running and unlocked.
More than 50 vehicles were stolen in the first three weeks of this month, mostly in the early morning hours.
Many thefts occur outside homes when owners leave their vehicles running to warm up before heading to work. Other common targets are vehicles left running outside convenience stores or other quick stop locations.
If someone spots a theft in progress, RCMP warn not to chase the thieves but to call RCMP at 403-343-5575 with information on the vehicle and direction of travel.