First: Mark your valuables with your driver’s license number so that they can be easily traced and identified as yours.

Why is the program effective?  Marked property is difficult for a burglar to dispose of or re-sell. It can be traced to the rightful owner with relative ease. And, if the burglar is caught with marked property, it is solid evidence of possession of stolen goods.

• Residents may borrow an electric engraving tool from  city fire stations. Civic groups and clubs are encouraged to purchase engravers to be used by members. Apartment managers can also provide engravers for tenants. Engravers are inexpensive and can be purchased at most home improvement centers.

• Use your driver's license number as your identifying mark on valuables, or use your assigned number from a state-issued identification card. Do not use your Social Security number. Contrary to popular belief, law enforcement cannot access Social Security information.

 Here's a sample marking: TX12345678

• Engrave a part of the item that cannot be easily dismantled.

• Make a list of your valuables (marked and unmarked) and keep it in a safe place. This will be of great help to the police if recovering the items becomes necessary.

• Display an Operation Identification sticker at doors and windows that might serve as entry points for a burglar.  Do not display a sticker without first engraving your property!