The author warns that the management of such property and evidence as guns, money, and drugs to ensure their protection from theft and loss is crucial for a police agency and for the careers of those who are responsible for the security of property and evidence. Fortunately, there are now many computer programs available to aid in managing the property/evidence operations of police departments. Various computer software programs can provide for inventory control, chain of custody, inventory tracking, evidence by category or location, portable barcode scanner, and barcode label software. Not only must records be accurate and efficient, but facility design and construction of the evidence room must ensure efficient, secure operation. The strength of construction materials, proper lighting inside and out, alarm systems, fire suppression, and secure access to the roof. In most cases, dead bolts and restricted keys are sufficient to control access to the property and evidence unit. A supplement to access systems that is increasing in popularity is the use of video surveillance with motion sensor activation. Another security measure is a log-in-and-out system.