The Windsor Police Department is teaming up with the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority (CATPA) to host a free Catalytic Converter Theft Prevention Event for residents on Saturday, Sept. 23, 8 a.m. to noon, at the Windsor Police Department, 200 N. 11th St.
Participants will receive a do-it-yourself kit that etches a serial number into the catalytic converter. To participate, residents must sign up for a designated time and acknowledge the number of kits they need based on the number of vehicles they own. Up to two kits are available per participant.
The event is open to Windsor residents only. Residents can sign up at bit.ly/CatalyticKit.
Participants will need to have their vehicle registration on hand at the event. The kits will be registered in the state and national databases using the vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Once home, residents can use the easy-to-follow instructions to etch the registered serial number into that vehicle’s catalytic converter.
If the catalytic converter is stolen, a victim can report their unique theft prevention kit serial number to police. Conversely, if officers find a detached catalytic converter, they can check the serial number through the CATPA database to locate the owner. Although etching a traceable number can’t stop a thief from stealing the component from a vehicle, it can act as a deterrent, as the unique number can alert potential buyers that it is stolen.
Residents are also encouraged to contact their insurance company representative to see if their policy covers catalytic converter theft, and if not, what options they might have to add this coverage. Vehicle owners can face replacement costs in excess of $2,000 if their catalytic converter is stolen.
To learn more about CAPTA, to view a video about installing the theft prevention kit, to find the registration link, and more, visit lockdownyourcar.org. To learn more about the Windsor Police Department, visit windsorpd.com.
