Law enforcement leaders say gun theft reports are climbing, with 11 firearms reported stolen in March and 16 more in April.

Police say the bigger concern shows up when those thefts are reported. Many gun owners can’t provide basic information about their firearm, including the serial number, make, or brand.

Officers say that information is key to tracking a stolen gun, whether it turns up before a crime or after it’s already been used.

They’re urging gun owners to document those details by taking a photo of the serial number, emailing it to themselves, or storing it away from where the firearm is kept.