Theft

When working with police and insurance companies after a theft, try to provide detailed information and be sure to keep all records. Then, work to prevent future thefts.

File a police report and/or contact your insurance agent immediately upon incurring a loss. Make a list of stolen items and provide any additional information that the insurance adjuster or police request to process your case (for example, the model and serial numbers of stolen items).
Keep copies of all police reports and insurance company correspondence. As noted above for natural disasters, an inventory and/or photographs of personal possessions can greatly enhance the claims process and chances of having stolen property recovered.
Use the theft as a learning experience. Change personal habits to reduce the risk of another theft such as keeping a purse in a locked desk drawer or cabinet at work and locking windows and/or doors at home.
Consider adding extra security equipment to your home such as motion detector lights and an alarm system (which can lower your insurance premiums). In addition, reach out to neighbors or co-workers for assistance in preventing future thefts. Some neighborhoods, for example, form “watch programs” for residents to take turns keeping an eye on each other’s property.
Ask local police who investigate your case to provide pointers on door locks and security procedures. Better still, consult them before a theft occurs.
Practice general security consciousness at all times, including traveling, at work, and at home. Think about your risk factors for theft and take action to reduce them.

When working with police and insurance companies after a theft, try to provide detailed information and be sure to keep all records. Then, work to prevent future thefts.

File a police report and/or contact your insurance agent immediately upon incurring a loss. Make a list of stolen items and provide any additional information that the insurance adjuster or police request to process your case (for example, the model and serial numbers of stolen items).
Keep copies of all police reports and insurance company correspondence. As noted above for natural disasters, an inventory and/or photographs of personal possessions can greatly enhance the claims process and chances of having stolen property recovered.
Use the theft as a learning experience. Change personal habits to reduce the risk of another theft such as keeping a purse in a locked desk drawer or cabinet at work and locking windows and/or doors at home.
Consider adding extra security equipment to your home such as motion detector lights and an alarm system (which can lower your insurance premiums). In addition, reach out to neighbors or co-workers for assistance in preventing future thefts. Some neighborhoods, for example, form “watch programs” for residents to take turns keeping an eye on each other’s property.
Ask local police who investigate your case to provide pointers on door locks and security procedures. Better still, consult them before a theft occurs.
Practice general security consciousness at all times, including traveling, at work, and at home. Think about your risk factors for theft and take action to reduce them.