On Jan 17 the Italian newspaper, Il Gazzettino, wrote an article addressing recent robberies throughout the Pordenone province.

Areas mentioned in the article included, Sacile, Passiano, Aviano, San Martino, Maron di Brugnera, and San Quirino. Vehicles and homes were broken into late afternoon through early morning. Three homes in San Quirino were entered into by drilling the window fixtures to allow entry through the windows. Euro, watches, and gold jewelry were among the items stolen. No personal injury was reported in the article. Mr. Mario Viola, carabinieri from Aviano office, suggested some simple things that Americans can do to help decrease their chance of becoming a victim to car or home evasion. Lock your car even if it is in your driveway behind a gate Shut and lock your Rolladens and shutters at night and when not at home Try to change your habits - switch up times that you leave and return to your house Use timers for lights to turn on at different times Leave your outside lights on Put in a motion detector in dark areas always as your landlord Have a neighbor look after your home when on extended leave Alarm Systems If you have an alarm system already, turn it on If you dont have an alarm system and want one, speak to your landlord as they are expensive Also, some alarm systems can be connected straight to the Pordenone carabinieri office for free, you landlord will need to initiate the process. Be Vigilant Look around your property for signs of someone watching your house cigarette butts, banana peels, discarded food containers, etc If you see something suspicious and can safely collect information, then do so. Such as, take a picture, write down any part or all of the license plate number, make, model of car, and occupants and report this to the local carabinieri. Mr. Viola also stressed how important it is for Americans to report even the smallest theft or suspicious activity to the local carabiniere office. We find that many Americans do not make reports and this makes it difficult to build our case against the offender. Finally, Mr. Viola explained why Americans should call 112 in emergency situations. 112 Goes straight to the Pordenone call center and they know which carabinieri vehicles are closest. They will also call on base law enforcement when Americans are involved. 113 Local police and not every town have police or may not have a car available. 632-7200 According to the Aviano law enforcement office, they may arrive at the off base scene but cannot render assistance until carabinieri are on scene. Also, when they receive a call at this number they will call the local carabinieri office, however, the local office may not have a car available and will need to contact the main Pordenone call center (112) to send the closest vehicle.
Source: Patricia Saks, 31FW PA Volunteer Resource Manager