July might mean sunshine and road trips, but it’s also National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month — and for Coloradans, that’s not something to brush off. Colorado State Patrol (CSP) says a stolen car is rarely the end of the crime; it’s often just the beginning.
So how do you keep your ride safe when crooks are watching for easy targets? Turns out, the basics still matter — plus a few extra steps you might not have thought of.
Car Theft: More Than Just Lost Wheels
Here’s the harsh truth: once a thief has your car, they’ve got a getaway vehicle for all sorts of trouble.
One line: Burglaries, reckless driving, even violent crimes — it can snowball.
Cale Gould with the CSP Auto Theft Prevention Authority says that’s why they’re ramping up their education campaign this month. The idea? Make your car the least tempting option on the block.
Back to Basics: Don’t Make It Easy
Sounds obvious, but plenty of people forget: lock your doors and take your keys. Every single time.
One-liner: It doesn’t matter if you’re “just running in” for five minutes.
A messy car is a magnet too. Loose bags, sunglasses, or even phone chargers can look like quick scores. And a quick score can become a stolen ride in seconds.
Here’s what CSP says you should do every time you park:
• Lock doors and close windows.
• Take your keys with you.
• Keep valuables out of sight.
• Park in well-lit spots.
One sentence: Small habits go a long way.
Go the Extra Mile With Technology
For some, the basics aren’t enough. Gould points out tools that add an extra layer of security.
Take Denver’s Trackcar program, for example — it helps police locate stolen vehicles faster.
Immobilization tech is another option. It stops your engine from starting unless your key is present. Sounds fancy, but it can mean the difference between a stolen car and a frustrated thief.
| Anti-Theft Option | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Trackcar Program | Police can locate stolen vehicles |
| Immobilization Device | Stops hot-wiring attempts |
| Parking Garage vs. Street | Fewer smash-and-grab opportunities |
Environment Matters — Park Smart
Not everyone has a garage, but CSP says choosing where you leave your car is huge.
One-liner: Thieves love a dark street.
Parking garages, driveways with motion lights, or spots near busy entrances all beat that lonely corner lot. Even small things like trimming back bushes can take away a crook’s hiding place.
One sentence: Think like a thief and you’ll outsmart them.
Simple Steps Now, Fewer Regrets Later
Gould says it best: “Don’t incentivize a thief.”
If they see an easy grab — or worse, your spare key in the console — you’re asking for trouble.
Lock it up. Take your stuff. Make it a pain for them to even try.
And if you do come out to an empty driveway, report it fast. The sooner police know, the better chance you’ll see your wheels again.
