Open to theft

Senior Airman Aaron Spencer, 96th Force Support Squadron, finds some personal property unsecured in the locker room at the base fitness center July 14 at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. There has been significant increase in thefts at and around the fitness center in the past few months, according to 96th Security Forces Squadron. Due to this, FSS is taking steps to make the fitness center more secure. Beginning, July 19, the fitness center will become a single-point entry facility. The entry/exit point will be the entrance facing the Eglin enlisted club. In the meantime, the fitness center staff has stepped up by patrolling the locker room areas, parking lots and random ID checks. (U.S. Air Force photo/Samuel King Jr.)

Security increases at fitness center

Published July 14, 2010
By Lois Walsh
Team Eglin Public Affairs

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- People working out at the base's fitness center are not just losing pounds.

There's been an increase in the number of thefts from the lockers in Bldg. 810. Cash, wallets and other valuables have been disappearing while patrons are getting fit.

Starting July 19, the fitness center will move to a single point of entry at the front doors, facing the enlisted club. Patrons can expect identification card checks when entering the facility.

According to Airman 1st Class Tiffany Bridgeman, 96th Security Forces Squadron, there has been a total of 10 larcenies in the last seven months, four in the month of July alone. Therefore, the fitness center staff is taking proactive measures to cut down on the thefts.

"We are increasing and randomizing walkthroughs of the facility, especially the locker rooms," said 1st Lt. Jennifer Stewart, 96th Force Support Squadron Chief of Fitness & Sports. "Additionally, alarms will be installed on all doors that lead to the outside."

The ultimate goal once Smoothie King relocates is to have an all-purpose customer service reception area at that entrance where fitness equipment can be issued, court/field reservations can be made and ID card checks will be conducted.

"ID card scanners and video surveillance systems were being considered, and patrons should take care and lock their vehicles outside of the facility as well," Lieutenant Stewart said.

Report any suspicious activity to the fitness center staff or the 96th SFS Law Enforcement Desk at 882-2503.