Empty Your Van Before A Thief Does 

Tradesmen, builders and other craftsmen who carry tools in their vans are being asked to empty their vehicles at night. But for added protection all tools should be security marked so that if they are stolen they can be identified more easily.

South Bucks District Councillor Anita Cranmer, Portfolio Holder for Community says, “Theft of tools can have a devastating effect on the owner, especially if they are self-employed.” She adds, “In 2010/11, we had 152 tools stolen from vehicles; we are already very close to this figure in only the first quarter of 2011/2012.”

This year, from April 1st to June 30th there have been 22 incidents of theft from a motor vehicle where at least one tool has been stolen. This accounts for nearly 15% of all thefts from a motor vehicle in South Bucks. 130 tools have been stolen in 22 thefts and, as many of them were unmarked, so far only one tool has been recovered by police and returned to the owner.

South Bucks Community Safety Partnership is urging tradesman to be vigilant and visibly marking their tools with a postcode or the words ‘Stolen from and your postcode’, this will deter criminals from selling on stolen goods at car boot sales or through other means.

Deputy LPA Commander Bhupinder Rai says, “We are working hard to tackle vehicle crime, but residents need to play their part by securing their vehicles and removing any valuable items. Wherever possible take your tools with you, and do not leave them in your van.”

If you would like your tools marked or engraved for free, please ask for your local Neighbourhood Policing Team on 0845 8 505 505.