Continuing with Crime Prevention month, the Alpena County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind citizens about “Lock it or Lose it.”

“Lock it or Lose it” is a simple reminder to citizens to lock their vehicles or risk losing their property. It takes less than 30 seconds to break into a car, grab what is in plain view, and get away. Many of the complaints handled by the Alpena County Sheriff’s Office this year involved vehicles that were left unlocked.

Theft prevention, like all crime prevention, involves limiting the criminal’s opportunity to commit crime.

With very little effort, residents can make a huge difference in not only reducing, but preventing crime.

“Lock it or Lose it” is simple:

∫ Lock your vehicle at all times.

∫ Keep your laptop, camera, MP3 player, GPS, cell phone, purse, wallet, briefcase, and other items out of plain view in your vehicle.

∫ Don’t leave packages or shopping bags visible in your car.

∫ Set your alarm or anti-theft device

Residents are reminded to call 911 to report a crime in progress or any suspicious activity or persons.