VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Police are warning people not to leave their belongings behind on the beach if they go into the water. Lifeguards say there have been several cases of theft so far this year.
The answer of what exactly to do has generated a lot of comments online and from people visiting. "I know if there is something valuable in my book bag I will definitely not leave it," said one beach visitor.
A reporter noticed several unattended belongings when at the Oceanfront on Thursday night. Police say to always make sure someone stays with your valuables as thieves can strike in an instant.
"It's that one in a million chance," said Sheila Wells, who's visiting the beach. "There are so many people who just walk the boardwalk here. They sleep out here. I would be cautious."
One of the latest victims is News 3's Beverly Kidd, who had her flip-flops stolen at the North End. She shared her experience on Facebook.
The question of what to do with your belongings at the beach has led to some out-of-the-box ideas, including a device that helps bury belongings. Another idea is to cut out an old suntan lotion bottle and hide valuables in there.
Police say another safe bet is buying a water-proof container. That way swimmers can carry their belongings in the water with them.
