Denver, CO – Small Business Saturday marks the start of Colorado’s holiday shopping season, drawing crowds to local shops and downtown districts from Denver and Colorado Springs to Boulder and Fort Collins. With colder temperatures and earlier sunsets now settling in across the state, safety officials say shoppers should take a few simple steps to stay safe while navigating busy stores and parking lots this winter.
According to local authorities, avoiding shopping alone after dark is one of the easiest ways to enhance safety. Whether visiting Denver’s 16th Street Mall, strolling Pearl Street in Boulder, or browsing Old Colorado City in Colorado Springs, having a companion provides additional awareness—especially in crowded or dimly lit areas.
Parking location is another key concern during the holiday rush. High-traffic spots like Cherry Creek Shopping Center, Southwest Plaza, or Fort Collins’ Foothills Mall tend to get congested. Officials recommend choosing well-lit parking spaces as close to main entrances as possible. Staying in visible, high-foot-traffic areas can help reduce risk when returning to your vehicle after sunset.
After loading purchases into your vehicle, safety experts urge shoppers to keep items out of sight. Leaving shopping bags visible on seats or dashboards is a common reason for vehicle break-ins during the holiday season. Storing items in the trunk or covering them helps significantly lower theft risk.
Staying aware of your surroundings is also essential—especially in busy holiday districts like Larimer Square, Belmar, or Old Town Fort Collins. Crowds and distractions make it easier for pickpockets to take advantage. Keeping wallets, purses, and phones secure and staying alert while walking to and from stores can prevent theft and loss.
Before leaving a shopping center, officials encourage following the “ELFS” safety routine: Enter your vehicle quickly, Lock your doors, Fasten your seatbelt, and Secure your belongings before driving off.
