Cop's Corner Published Oct. 2, 2009 By 31st Security Forcces Squadron AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy -- On Sept. 25, an active duty military member reported someone broke into their residence and stole personal property. The Airman stated someone entered the residence through the kitchen window and stole 75 euro from their wallet. The Airmen further stated the window was properly secured the night prior to the burglary. It is unfortunate that a burglary occurred in this situation, especially since the Airman properly secured their residence. Keep in mind where valuables are located even when they are stored in a properly secured residence. Never leave valuables in locations that are visible are easily accessible. On Sept. 23, an active duty military dependent reported they lost their backpack on Sept. 9. The family member stated they noticed the backpack missing while they were getting off the train in Pisa. The backpack contained a camera, cell phone, 100 euro and some receipts. The military family member was unable to locate the missing backpack. While traveling with valuable items, always ensure you are aware of their location at all times. Never assume these valuables are safe. Keep valuables as close to you as possible even if they are inside of a purse or backpack. Conduct continuous checks of the whereabouts of your valuables such as cameras, money and documents such as ID cards and passports. On Sept. 22, an active duty military member reported someone broke into their residence through a second story window and stole personal property. The Airman stated someone had stolen two laptop computers, one IPod with headphones, one pair of Oakley sunglasses, 80 euro and $150. In addition to the residential burglary, the Airman's vehicle's window was broken. The Airman further stated one ABU top was missing from inside of their vehicle. Burglars will make every attempt to break into your residence even if that means a second story window. Be mindful of valuables being left in plain view inside your residence at all times. Never leave valuables close to windows and doors. The same goes for valuables left inside vehicles. If it is important to you or valuable, lock it up. On Sept. 21, an active duty military member reported they lost their military identification card. The Airman stated they last saw their ID card in Germany over the weekend when they gave the ID card to a friend for safekeeping. The Airman retraced their steps and was unable to relocate the missing ID card. It is important for each individual to keep track of his or her own military identification card at all times. ID cards can potentially allow unauthorized individuals access to the base and associated facilities. On Sept. 21, an active duty military member reported someone had stolen their wallet. The Airman stated the wallet was in their back pocket when they felt someone bump into them and their the wallet being lifted from their pocket. The Airman then saw the individual running down the street from the Venice train station. The Airman was unable to recover their stolen wallet. Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Understand that high profile tourist areas are prime locations for pickpockets and purse snatchers. Consider carrying only what is necessary during the trip. Keep purses close to your body at all times and consider carrying your wallet in your front pocket. Crime Prevention Tip of the Week: Halloween may be a fun holiday for kids, but for parents, trick-or-treat time can be a little tricky. Concerns about children's safety can darken the day more quickly than a black cat, but not to worry! To make Halloween a treat for all, follow these safety tips: - Make sure costumes are flame-retardant so the little ones aren't in danger near burning jack-o-lanterns and other fire hazards. - Keep costumes short to prevent trips, falls, and other bumps in the night. - Try make-up instead of a mask. Masks can be hot and uncomfortable and, more importantly, they can obstruct a child's vision which is a dangerous thing when kids are crossing streets and going up and down steps. - Make sure kids wear light colors or put reflective tape on their costumes. - Trick-or-treaters should always be in groups so they aren't a tempting target for real-life goblins. - Parents should accompany young children.