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Security
Hey all, I've been reading this thread with quite a bit of interest. I'm one of the regional directors for the Lone Star Regional so I can understand the problem there is with the issue of theft.
What can I tell you? We are very concerned with the idea that cameras, tools, equipment and laptops sprout legs and walk off with someone they don't belong to and believe me, F.I.R.S.T. takes it all very seriously. (Plus it's embarassing to have things stolen at "my" regional event, that makes it very personal.)
As part of our deterrent process we have security personnel and we have rules that are meant to protect the pit area. Logistics prevent us from leaving crates in the pits, but crates can act as a screen for someone to lift an item unseen.
Yes we could limit access to the pits, but in the end, we can't strip search everyone who enters or leave and short of that we could never be 100% sure nothing will get misplaced.
I think many of the suggestions that were made are good and help with the overall problem. I would add, MARK your stuff clearly. It makes it less attractive and easier to spot. Help us by watching out for each other and don't leave computers, cameras, tools or $20 bills where some misguided soul might be tempted.
ALSO please follow the local regional's rules (with smiles please). Some of them are inconvinient but they are part of the security procedures. I won't tell EVERYTHING we do for security or why for obvious reasons, but we spend a lot of money on security that I wish we could spend on the regional events.
Just wanted to let you all know, that we WILL do everything practical to prevent theft, but you all need to watch out for yourselves as well.
Thanks! Off my soapbox now...
Steve Alaniz
"Forget it... I already feel like my life is a comic strip" - Sally Forth
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