Bottesford NHW Alert: Thefts of Tools from Vehicles- Advice from the Police

Leicestershire Police is urging van drivers not to leave tools in their vehicles overnight after 26 attempted or successful thefts from vans have been reported over the past week.

Chief Superintendent Andy Lee, Commander of the Local Policing Directorate said; "We have received a number of reports from across the force area of theft or tools from vans.

"The majority of thefts have been taking place overnight on driveways of homes but we have also seen some occurrences in hotel car parks. I would encourage van owners to take precautions, both at home and when staying overnight in hotels, to reduce their chances of becoming a victim of this type of crime.

"These tools are essential for people to carry out their jobs, and without them their livelihood can be affected. We are urging people to follow the advice below to ensure they don't fall victim to tool theft."

To help protect your property we recommend;

• removing all tools from vehicles overnight

• purchasing a sign or sticker advising that no tools are left in your van overnight

• parking your vehicle in a garage if you have one

• consider alarming the vehicle or fitting an internal security cage

• if you park on a drive, installing security lights

• visibly marking your machinery and tools

• if possible, parking your vehicle close to a wall so that the doors cannot be opened

• reporting any suspicious activity to us immediately on 101

If you would like more information on how to protect your vehicle and property from thieves please visit our vehicle crime pages

Circulated by:

John Shilton

Principal NHW Co-ordinator

Bottesford Parish NHW

JohnS@BottesfordParishNHW.org.uk

Mobile: 07725636626