Cop's Corner highlights burglary prevention

  • Published
  • 31st Security Forces Squadron
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  Oct. 13: An active-duty member reported house burglary. Authorities identified footprints on an exterior wall, a hole drilled into the kitchen window frame, and open drawers in the home.

While this burglary may not have been prevented, some extra measures one can take to deter burglars include increasing exterior lighting, locking windows, installing extra locks, and securing shutters at night and when leaving.

Oct. 16: The 31st Security Forces Squadron received two reports of vehicle burglaries. One vehicle was left unlocked. The stolen items consisted of two MP3 players and two GPS. The 31st SFS discovered scratches and a minor indention on one of the vehicles.

One of the best features of most electronic devices is portability. Take these items with you when leaving vehicles unattended; otherwise, remove them from plain view. Accessories to these valuable items, such as mounts and charging cables, should also be removed from plain view. For additional protection, purchase a GPS with anti-theft security features. After purchasing valuable electronics, make a note of the model and serial number, and store this information in a safe place with the receipt.

Crime Prevention Tip of The Week:

Keep security in mind when choosing a home in Italy. Sometimes, apartments and houses here do not provide adequate physical security. Consider using this checklist when choosing a home:

1. Entry door has a deadbolt lock and peephole.
2. Sliding glass doors have wooden rod in the track and pins in the overhead frame.
3. Landlord tightly controls all keys.
4. Walkways, entrances, parking areas, elevators, stairways, laundry rooms and storage areas are well-lit 24 hours a day.
5. Hedges are trimmed low.
6. Outdoor storage and garages have locks.
7. All windows have locks.