GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KKCO) - Auto theft will be a little harder after a week long awareness on puffing.

Puffing is a term used by auto thieves that go around and look for the little puff of smoke from a car's tail pipe.

With the owner away and the keys in the ignition, it makes an easy target for auto thieves.

The Western Colorado Auto Theft Task Force and Coloradans Against Auto Theft are teaming up this week to help educate residents about the dangers of puffing.

"It is a criminal violation but we don't generally issue tickets. We're more interested in educating people about how not to make themselves an easy target," said Kate Porras, with the Grand Junction Police Department.

Puffing is a serious problem, in Colorado about 50% of auto thefts involve vehicles that are left running.

To help you know more about keeping your car in your driveway, click the link below.