Take a moment for crime prevention Published Jan. 9, 2008 By Master Sgt. Scott Stafford 52nd Security Forces Squadron SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Ring, ring ... a 52nd Security Forces Squadron desk sergeant answers the phone, "52 Security Forces Control Center, how may I help you Sir or Ma'am?" "Someone just stole 50 compact discs, my CD player and oh yeah... my Common Access Card from my car," responds a frantic caller. "Sir, was your vehicle locked?" asks the desk sergeant. The caller pauses a moment before answering, "Er....er...No." As the desk sergeant muffles the phone with his hand he turns to his assistant -- "Airman Doe, we have another one." The phone call to report stolen personal property takes more time to make then it takes to ensure personal property is secured. It is that simple, just a few moments when you get out of your vehicle, leave your house or dorm to lock-up, it could save you from becoming a victim. Take the time secure personal property. Do not leave high value items in plain view, making them easy targets for thieves or vandals. Last year 80 percent of all cases involving stolen vehicles, vandalism or personal property theft, the target vehicle was unlocked or the keys were in the ignition. German law requires parked cars to be locked. In addition, force protection bravo measure 10 requires drivers to lock parked vehicles and to check them before entering or exiting. Crime prevention starts with you, you are the number one crime prevention tool and you are the eyes and ears on the street. Anyone who sees or hears something that does not seem right or is out of place should call Security Forces to make a report. Spending a few minutes now could save a lot of time, money and hassles later. Don't become a victim - Lock dorm, housing and automobile doors - Park in a well lit areas when possible. - Keep car windows closed - Remember, "out of sight... out of mind" -- keep personal property such as bikes, valuables, etc. secured. - Maintain proper control of important credentials -- remember operational security - Don't leave unattended vehicles running. This is also a German law. - Never leave any contents or valuables in plain sight in an unattended vehicle. Lock them in the trunk before parking or take them with you. - Report suspicious personnel or activities to 52nd SFS at 452-6666 or 452-2700.