Steps to securing personal property Published May 20, 2011 By Danny Monahan 377th Air Base Wing Public Affairs Kirtland AIr Force Base, NM -- Recently, some unlawful acts have occured on base that could have been easily prevented, according to Master Sgt. Maurice Robinson, 377th Security Forces Squadron. "Crime on Kirtland is low, but with a population exceeding 20,000, some unlawful acts are going to occur," said Sergeant Robinson. "Kirtland AFB recently experienced a spike in incidents involving the theft of personal property from unsecured vehicles and property damage. If individuals had just locked their doors, the thefts and damages more than likely would have been avoided." If a vehicle is broken into on the installation, the 377th SFS advises people to call the Crime Stop hotline at 846-9111. "If your vehicle is broken into, refrain from moving or touching the vehicle," said Sergeant Robinson. "This will provide our investigators with a better chance to collect evidence, which could assist in solving the crime." Sergeant Robinson offers the following tips for securing vehicles. "Always roll up the windows and lock the vehicle, even if it's in front of your home," said Sergeant Robinson. "Never leave your vehicle running or the keys in the ignition. And other than your vehicle registration and insurance cards, never leave valuables or personal identification documents in your vehicle." To prevent damage or theft to property, Sergeant Robinson advises people to lock their home, garage, sheds and windows at all times. People should also turn on outdoor lights in the evening, and if possible install photocell or motion-sensitive lighting. People can take additional measures to protect high-value personal property through the base's Operation Identification Program's electric engravers. Electric engravers allow people to mark personal property with a unique identifier. "You can mark your property by simply engraving the letters "AF," followed by the last four of your social security number," said Sergeant Robinson. "It is also recommended you document your property on an inventory list and take pictures or video of it." Electric engravers are available at the 377th SFS Resource Protection office and can be checked out for 48 hours. For more information, call Resource Protection at 846-6209. Airmen living on base can request the 377th SFS to periodically patrol their residence when going on leave or on a temporary duty assignment by filling out a quarters check form at the base law enforcement desk. "Suspend mail and newspaper deliveries or ask a neighbor to assist if you will be away for an extended period of time," said Sergeant Robinson. "One of the most effective ways of deterring neighborhood crime is to get to know your neighbors. Neighbors who know you will know when something or someone is out of place." Anyone with information concerning the recent thefts or property damage should contact the 377th SFS at 846-1319.