As part of Crime Prevention and Fire Safety month, the Picayune Exchange club honored a local law enforcement officer for her service to the community.

Picayune Police Department Capt. Theresa Milar was presented with the award for Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.

“She exemplifies what an officer should be and shows her love for the youth in the community,” said Russell Lee, an Exchange club member.

Milar said she was honored and “surprised to receive the award.”

Throughout her career, Milar has dedicated much of her time to give back to the community. She organizes many of the department’s community events, including their annual summer camp. This past summer, the department hosted a bowl-a-thon fundraiser in conjunction with the camp, which raised an estimated $8,000 to install a handicapped-accessible swing in Friendship Park and purchase gift cards and food for residents at the Pines Apartments.

Before the award presentation, Picayune Chief of Police Bryan Dawsey spoke about crime prevention and how local residents can protect themselves and their valuables.

“Crime prevention starts with you guys,” Dawsey said.

While the crime rate is relatively low in Picayune, the department recently dealt with a string of vehicle burglaries, which typically occur during the summer months. Dawsey said 90 percent of the burglaries were due to people leaving their vehicles unlocked.

“Make sure to lock your vehicles and hide any possessions inside your car’s trunk or take them inside your home,” Dawsey said.

He also said homeowners should keep their home’s front door locked at all times.

“Don’t allow yourselves to be victims of a crime,” Dawsey said.

According to the National Crime Prevention Council, October is the official month for recognizing and celebrating crime prevention and promoting safer communities.

Dawsey said the department works tirelessly to ensure the community stays safe. Tuesday, officers from the department participated in the National Night Out Against Crime, where they visited the Pines and Bridgeway Apartments and Weems Chapel United Methodist Church in an effort to reach out to the community.

“We’re here to help you and be as visible as possible and we hope we’re making a difference in deterring crime,” Dawsey said.