Operation Identification is a program designed to discourage theft of valuables from your home and other locations and provide a way to easily identify stolen property.

The program has dramatically reduced the profit in stolen goods.  Marked articles are difficult to dispose of and easily traced.  Thus, if it is advertised that your valuables are protected by Operation Identification, you will be less likely to be victimized.

Operation Identification works whether your property is stolen or lost.  Proper identification makes it easier for police to return stolen property.

How Do You Join Operation Identification?

Contact your local police or civic group.  You will be loaned an electrical engraver, free of charge.  You will also receive an Operating Identification record sheet and decals.  The decals should be placed at main entries, to indicate that your valuables are marked.

What Number Do You Use?

Home and Apartment:

• Use a personal identification mark, such as a social insurance number.

Businesses, schools and organizations:

• Contact the local police and obtain a special identification number

Helpful Hints on Operation Identification

• Don't put decals on your doors or windows unless you have engraved your property
• Be sure to make a record of your property.  Keep it in a safe place
• When engraving, hold the tool straight up, not on a slant
• The engraving tool has a depth adjuster.  The harder the surface ... adjust the knob to a louder position
• For deterrant purposes, the identification number should be readily visible, without marring the appearance of the item.  A second hidden number can be applied if required
• Remember that there are other citizens waiting for you to return the engraver.   Complete your marking and return the engraver within the loan agreement time

Other Security Information

The Niagara Regional Police has provided a checklist of items to assist in determining what items could be included for identification.  You can view this checklist by clicking HERE.

Operation Identification is one basic step to prevent theft.  Good lighting, good locks, and other security precautions can be taken to prevent crime in your community.  To learn more about Home Security, click HERE.  For information on Apartment Security, click HERE.

  
A printable version of this document is also available to view and download.  To find out more, click HERE to visit the Just the FAQs section of our Web site.