Holiday Crime Prevention

Published Dec. 2, 2010
By Senior Airman Stephen Linch
48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- With the holidays quickly approaching, trees are being put up and decorated, gifts are wrapped and crime is once again on the rise.

According to Police Constable Paul Glover, RAFs Lakenheath and Mildenhall defense community police officer, crime typically rises during the holiday season as criminals take advantage of the abundance of high value items becoming more readily available.

"Criminals do like this time of year, because it is easy pickings," he said. "(There) are lots of presents about and expensive items in the houses."

Police Constable Glover says members of Team Lakenheath can ensure that they are not an easy target for criminals during this holiday season by:

· Making sure their home's doors and windows are locked at all times.

· Making a habit of locking vehicle doors on base or off base.

· Having a trusted agent watch their home when they are away.

· Keeping high value items and gifts out of sight, perhaps in an interior room or the attic.

· Reporting suspicious activities to the proper authorities.

To report suspicious activities call the 48th Security Forces Squadron at 01638 522 333 or DSN 226-2333. For emergencies on base call 911 from DSN lines, 527 911 from base housing or 01638 527 911 from mobile phones. For emergencies off base call 999.