In Grand Junction, Colorado, local police are urging residents to adopt a simple nightly habit called the 9 PM routine to fight rising thefts. This push comes amid recent reports of vehicle break-ins and property crimes, with officers stressing that basic steps like locking doors and turning on lights can make a big difference.
What Is the 9 PM Routine?
The 9 PM routine is a straightforward checklist promoted by the Grand Junction Police Department to help people secure their homes and cars before bed. Police say it takes just a few minutes but can prevent opportunist thieves from striking.
Officials recommend doing this every night around 9 PM, when many people start winding down. The routine builds on common sense practices that have worked in other communities facing similar issues.
This initiative aligns with broader efforts across Colorado and nearby states, where police departments have seen success with similar programs. For instance, recent data shows that areas with active community routines report fewer overnight thefts.
Key Steps to Follow
The routine focuses on three main actions that residents can easily incorporate into their daily lives. Police emphasize that consistency is key to making these habits effective.
Here are the core steps:
- Lock all vehicles and home entry points, including doors, windows, and garages.
- Remove valuables from cars, such as wallets, electronics, keys, or firearms, to avoid tempting thieves.
- Turn on exterior lights to illuminate potential hiding spots and deter intruders.
Beyond these basics, experts suggest adding motion-sensor lights or security cameras for extra protection. In Grand Junction, where winters bring early darkness, these measures become even more vital.
Local officers note that many thefts happen because people forget simple precautions. By following this routine, residents can reduce risks without much effort.
Police shared that in 2025, vehicle thefts in the area spiked during holidays, prompting this renewed focus. The routine aims to build on that awareness and keep crime rates down in 2026.
Why Theft Prevention Matters Now
Theft rates have climbed in many U.S. cities, including Grand Junction, due to economic pressures and urban growth. National statistics from the FBI show a 5 percent increase in property crimes last year, with vehicles often targeted.
In Colorado, recent events like a surge in car break-ins during New Year’s celebrations highlight the need for vigilance. Grand Junction saw similar patterns, with police responding to more calls about stolen items from unlocked cars.
This routine addresses these trends by empowering residents to take control. It not only prevents loss but also eases the burden on law enforcement, allowing officers to focus on other community needs.
Experts point out that thieves often scout neighborhoods at night, looking for easy targets. By disrupting those opportunities, the 9 PM routine can lower overall crime and foster a safer environment.
Community leaders praise the approach for its practicality. It ties into ongoing programs, like collecting old phones for crime victims, showing police commitment to broader safety.
Real Impact and Community Stories
Residents who have tried the routine report feeling more secure. One local shared how locking up nightly stopped a potential break-in after spotting suspicious activity via their new lights.
Police data indicates that neighborhoods with high participation see up to 20 percent fewer theft reports. This mirrors successes in places like Kamloops, Canada, where a similar program cut property crimes noticeably.
However, challenges remain. Some people forget the routine amid busy schedules, so police are using social media and local events to remind everyone.
In Grand Junction, the police department’s animal control unit, launched in 2025, has even tied into theft prevention by addressing related issues like pet thefts.
Overall, the initiative builds community trust and encourages neighbors to watch out for each other.
Additional Tips from Experts
To boost the routine’s effectiveness, consider these expert-recommended strategies. They go beyond the basics and can be tailored to individual homes.
A table of common theft risks and prevention methods shows how small changes add up:
| Risk Factor | Prevention Tip | Expected Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Unlocked Vehicles | Always lock and check handles | Reduces break-ins by 40 percent |
| Visible Valuables | Store items in trunk or home | Deters quick grabs |
| Dark Exteriors | Install motion lights | Scares off intruders instantly |
| Forgotten Garages | Secure with alarms | Protects tools and equipment |
These tips come from years of police experience and align with national safety guidelines. Adding them can make the 9 PM routine even stronger.
Remember, prevention starts with awareness. Police urge reporting any odd behavior to help catch thieves early.
Looking Ahead for Safer Nights
As Grand Junction enters 2026, the 9 PM routine represents a proactive step against theft. With crime patterns evolving, staying informed and prepared remains crucial.
Residents can join local workshops or follow police updates for more guidance. This collective effort could set an example for other cities.
Share this article with friends and family to spread the word on theft prevention, and drop a comment below with your own safety tips. Your input could help make our communities even safer.
