Michigan State Police want you to protect your vehicle.

July is Vehicle Theft Prevention Month, and Colonel James Grady, the director of the Michigan State Police, reports the number of stolen cars last year was down.

“The first responders, state troopers out there doing a great job,” Grady said. “We have two auto theft teams — one in Southeast and one in Southwest Michigan — and they are doing an absolutely great job.”

Some things you can do to help your odds, Grady says, are park in well-lit areas, close and lock all windows and doors when you park, keep valuables out of sight, and do not leave your keys in your vehicle or leave it running unattended.