Tool theft is a costly crime and becomes more common as the nights get longer. Surrey Police offer several recommendations to help protect your equipment from being stolen.
The most effective way to prevent thefts is to park your vehicle in a secure garage or remove tools from your vehicle every night. However, this is not always possible for everyone.
If you cannot use a garage, consider parking in a well-lit area covered by CCTV. Position your vehicle so that the rear or side doors are against a wall or sturdy railings to provide additional protection. Installing an alarm system or using interior deadbolts that can be controlled manually or electronically can also deter thieves.
Thieves often break into vans by drilling around locks and handles. To counter this, professionally installed stainless steel plates can reinforce these vulnerable entry points and make them less susceptible to attack.
Insurance is another important consideration. Standard van insurance usually does not cover tools left in vehicles overnight. Surrey Police recommend applying for specialist insurance that covers tools in transit to ensure you are protected.
If you notice suspicious behaviour, you can upload photographs and footage to the Suspicious Activity Portal. Always call 999 if a crime is in progress.
To help prove stolen tools are yours, take photographs and keep an inventory of all the tools in your van, including serial numbers and distinguishing marks. Personalising tools by etching your initials or marking them with brightly coloured paint or UV pens can also aid identification.
For more detailed information, visit the Surrey Police crime prevention page: https://www.surrey.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/protect-home-crime/mark-your-property/
