AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy -- On Aug. 17, an active-duty military member reported that someone had stolen their Vodaphone cell phone which belonged to one of their family members. The member stated their family member left the cell phone on the front porch of their residence two weeks prior and was unable to locate the missing cell phone. Incidents like these should encourage everyone to properly secure their personal belongings at all times. Obviously, this phone is a hot commodity and should be properly secured in the safety of your residence while it is not in use.
On Aug. 17, an active-duty military member reported that someone broke into their residence and backyard storage shed. The member stated they entered their residence and noticed the shed in their backyard and the front door to their residence was damaged. The shed received a damaged window frame and bracket causing the window to hang from its latch. The front door handle to the residence was removed and lying on the ground. The member stated all of their property was removed from the residence and the shed prior to the incident and nothing was stolen from either facility. Luckily, this individual's personal belongings were removed before this incident occurred. However, it is important to be mindful of where your personal property is located and how well the property is secured. Also, be aware of strange individuals in your neighborhood who may be looking for potential burglary targets.
On Aug. 19, an active-duty military member reported that two individuals stole his and his girlfriend's house keys during a robbery. The member stated two individuals approached his girlfriend and took her belongings which also contained the member's house keys. The member was unable to recover the missing house keys. This situation is unfortunate yet avoidable. Be mindful of your surroundings when you are out in public. Avoid going anywhere alone. If you do become a victim of a crime notify the proper authorities immediately.
During the past week, 10 vehicle accidents involving Aviano Air Base personnel were reported. These incidents varied from minor fender benders to major accidents with injuries. It is critical that we use the maximum awareness possible while driving. Avoid minor distractions, such as: talking on your cell phone, eating and drinking, and even changing the radio station. Be aware of other vehicles on the road and anticipate their poor driving habits. Continuously monitor your speed and ensure the speed of your vehicle is safe for current road conditions (rain, wind, snow) and within the suggested speed limit.
Crime Prevention Tip of the Week:
Don't put off talking to your children about alcohol and other drugs. As early as fourth grade, kids worry about pressures to try drugs. Parents must become involved, but most parents aren't sure how to tell their children about drugs. Open communication is one of the most effective tools you can use in helping your child avoid drug use. Talking freely and really listening shows children that they mean a great deal to you. How do you say it? Calmly and openly, don't exaggerate. The facts speak for themselves. Face to face--exchange information and try to understand each other's point of view. Be an active listener and let your child talk about fears and concerns. Don't interrupt and don't preach. Establish an ongoing conversation rather than giving a one-time speech. Remember that you set the example. Avoid contradictions between your words and your actions. Be creative and exchange ideas with other parents.