According to military police officials, the safe feeling offered by living on a military base causes residents to develop complacency and they tend to forget the basics of personal security. Doing the simple things such as locking doors, securing valuables and ensuring windows are shut stop happening.

“Crime of opportunity is the main issue on base,” said Lance Cpl. Bryce R. Meinders, crime prevention specialist, Military Police Company, Security Battalion, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. “The biggest larcenies happen from unsecured vehicles.”

Opportunity crimes mainly occur in three areas of the installation; barracks, parking lots, and family housing.

Crime prevention specialists recommend the following tips:

- Ensure windows to your home or barracks room are closed and locked when unattended and use a reinforcement bar for sliding windows.

- Wall lockers should be locked with a key style lock instead of a combination style which can be easily unlocked.

- Do not leave items outside; children toys and sporting goods should be put away.

- Do not leave phones, iPods, GPS, purses, or wallets in plain view.

- Park in well lit areas without concealment.

“For simple petty thefts, the highest targets are the easiest ones,” said Daniel S. Sheppard, crime prevention specialist, Military Police Company, Security Battalion. “Base is a very safe place to live, therefore crimes are far less malicious, but it is still critical to maintain a level of security for your valuables.

If you are a witness to a crime in action, dial 9-1-1, for non-emergencies and general information on crime prevention, call the Provost Marshall’s Office at (760) 725-3888.