CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
In my last commentary, I addressed crime and what you can do to prevent it. Air Force bases are just a small reflection of actual society and, although military members are held to a higher standard, their family members or guests may not exercise that same standard.
You may not personally see it or experience it, but crime does exist here at Charleston AFB. Most of it could have been prevented if the individuals involved had just followed some basic security measures. As your security forces squadron, we can be proactive as a deterrent or reactionary force after a crime has been committed, but actual security starts with you. Even though the total number of crimes against persons or personal property from last year to this year has decreased from 280 to 222, the total private dollar amount for the crimes has increased from $51,000 to $86,000. Since the total number of crimes has not dropped significantly and the dollar amount has increased, I feel it's necessary to address this subject once again.
An example of a crime committed here this year would be when the visiting brother of an active-duty Airman stole several iPods, two watches, phone and m3 player chargers and earphones from vehicles in base housing totaling more $2,100 in value. Even though it only took us a short time to catch the subject, the actual crimes could have been prevented if the 10 victims had just locked their car doors.
Security is everyone's business. As law-abiding citizens, it is first and foremost your responsibility to protect yourself. By following these simple tips, you can significantly reduce your chances of becoming a victim of crime.
-- Crime happens in base housing and dormitories. Lock your doors, even when you intend to return home shortly or if you are just going down the hall. It takes a thief 10 seconds or less to enter an open room and steal your property.
-- Keep the number to the security forces desk, 963-3600, by your phone.
-- Do not leave messages on your door indicating you are away and when you will return. -- Lock or secure doors and windows when you are alone or asleep.
-- Do not let strangers enter your home.
-- Do not prop open outer doors.
-- If someone asks to use your home phone for an emergency call, offer to telephone for them instead of allowing them access.
-- Do not put your address on your key ring.
-- Know your neighbors.
-- Do not leave keys in hiding places because thieves will find them. Carry your keys or make sure that anyone who truly needs them has their own copy.
-- Call the security forces desk to report suspicious persons or activity in or around your neighborhood.
-- Open a savings or checking account instead of keeping money in your house or dorm room.
-- Keep automatic teller machine cards in a safe place and keep your personal identification number secret. When possible, only use automated teller machines during the day.
-- Instead of carrying large sums of cash, use a charge card. Some charge cards insure property purchased with those cards against loss, theft or damage.
-- If you find yourself in immediate danger, call the security forces desk; try to stay calm and get away at the first opportunity.
-- Avoid walking alone at night unless absolutely necessary.
-- If you feel threatened, cross the street, locate an emergency phone or enter a store or place of business, even if you have just left it.
-- Walk purposefully, know where you are going, and project a no-nonsense image.
-- Avoid potentially dangerous situations.
-- Have your door keys ready; carry them in your pockets, not buried in a purse.
-- Always lock your car.
-- Lock bikes to immovable objects or bike racks with hardened alloy locks and chains or U-shaped locks.
-- Do not leave tempting valuables or property visible inside the car. Lock these items in the trunk.
-- Look into your car before getting in. Lock doors and roll up windows once inside for protection.
-- Travel with a friend or in a group.
-- Be alert and aware of your surroundings.
-- Avoid dark, vacant or deserted areas; use well-lit, well-traveled routes.
-- Dress in clothes and shoes which will not hamper movement.
-- Move away from any potential threats if possible.
-- If a threatening situation is imminent, and people are close by to help, yell, scream or make a commotion in any way you can to get their attention.
The 437th Security Forces Squadron will continue to serve and protect the Charleston AFB populace, but we can all contribute to making our community safer for our friends and family by doing our part.