Tradespeople are being warned to take extra security measures over winter to protect the tools they store in their van. Motoring experts have warned vehicle owners that January is a prime time for criminals to strike and offered advice on protecting their equipment.
A Freedom of Information request found that 35,098 tool thefts were reported to the police in 2022 – equal to one every 15 minutes.
An eye-watering £66 million worth of tools were stolen from tradespeople’s vehicles, which thieves frequently target.
Tool theft will likely increase in January as opportunistic thieves look to make extra cash after Christmas.
Steps tradespeople should take to protect their tools from thieves include parking in well-lit areas and marking equipment.
Tim Alcock from Lease Van said: “Thieves and burglars see January as the perfect time to take expensive equipment from tradespeople.
“Burglars are more likely to steal tools over the New Year because they know many are celebrating and therefore less vigilant, so see it as the perfect time to strike.
“Last year, £66 million worth of tools were stolen from tradies vehicles, and we expect that figure to be just as high this year with the cost-of-living crisis fuelling crime.
“Criminals are well aware that tools and equipment are expensive, so it is important to take extra security measures like storing equipment in a secure indoor location and using warning signs to protect yourself.”
These are Lease Van’s seven tips to protect tools:
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Park Carefully
Avoid parking in isolated and quiet areas, as this will appeal to thieves, and stick to where CCTV operates. At home, park with the back door against a wall, in sight of a window or a well-lit area to deter thieves.
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Additional Security
Consider investing in extra security like deadbolts, alarms, and slam locks, making it harder for thieves to break in and acting as a deterrent.
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Warning Signs
It may seem simple, but making it known that there is CCTV or that tools are not kept in the van or a work site can deter thieves. Thieves like easy targets, and the extra risk of being caught will put them off.
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Store Indoors
When finished, take tools out of the van and leave them somewhere more secure, like inside your home or a storage facility.
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Mark Tools
An effective way to deter theft is to mark tools and equipment with the name of your business, as it can aid their recovery if they are ever sold on and will be easily identifiable to the police.
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Tech Preventions
For tech-savvy tradies, there are several ways to protect tools, including motion-sensing cameras, GPS tracking devices and smart padlocks.
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Insurance
Some providers will cover the cost of replacing tools if lost or damaged so the business can keep running if the worst happens.
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