Which items to Mark
Anything of value that a thief could carry away except guns or items that will be reduced in value -- write down serial numbers on those items. Many items like jewelry will have an inscription like, "To Martha With all My Love" - that is listed as a OAN (Owner Applied Number) and is just as good as a serial number in many instances. Make sure that is listed on any report taken.
- Bicycles, Radios, Cameras, Televisions, Binoculars, VCR, Watches, Stereos
- Hand and Power Tools, Computers, Gardening Tools, Typewriters
- Kitchen Appliances, Musical Instruments, Sports Equipment
In addition to engraving your property, it is extremely important for you to keep a written inventory. This should include Model numbers, Serial numbers, and a complete description of the item.
Write down the serial numbers of any and every firearm you own. You can get it back if it's stolen if you record the serial numbers, model and brand name. Smith & Wesson Model 3903 - 9mm serial number 15R45678 for example. Everything electronic - VCRs, Computers, Monitors, Cameras, Radios and the like. Engrave numbers on power tools as they may have non-unique numbers. Take the manuals and registration cards when you buy something and put everyone in the same box or bag in one closet - in one place. When items are stolen - make SURE the officer or Teleserve operator gets the serial numbers. You can get your property back if recovered if you have this proof. Police will arrest persons trying to sell your valuables and you will get them returned.
Identify Your Property
One of the best ways that you can assist the police in recovering your stolen property is by keeping records. Record this information on a property record sheet which is provided. Be sure and use additional sheets if necessary.
If Your Property Is Stolen
Contact the Police Department at 615-862-8600. Be prepared to provide the police with the serial and model numbers along with descriptions of your property. Every year police recover hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of stolen goods. Often the owners have no proof that the property is theirs. A record of your property will solve this problem.
Print out the Record of Valuable Property form, fill it in and store it in a safe place. You will have a good chance to find your recovered property if your property is ever stolen.