Courtesy art A Michigan State Police home inventory form appears in this courtesy image.

ALPENA ― Police stand a better chance of getting stolen belongings back if residents keep track of their valuable items, the Michigan State Police advised this week.

The MSP-Alpena Post now offers home inventory forms in an effort to help residents track their belongings in case they become a victim of a crime or fire.

The forms include spaces to record serial numbers, descriptions, value, and other information about residents’ property. If kept in a locked, fireproof container, such information can help troopers quickly identify stolen items posted for sale on public websites after a theft, MSP representatives said.

Listing valued items in a moment of calm removes some of the stress of responding to a difficult time, police said.

Residents can pick up a copy of the MSP home inventory form at the Alpena post or access the form below.

Home Inventory Form by Julie Riddle on Scribd