Police issue security advice following spate of break-ins and tool thefts from parked vehicles in Lanarkshire

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Police have issued a series of tips to Lanarkshire residents following increased reports of break ins and thefts of tools from parked vehicles across the area.Officers are urging people to ensure their vehicles are locked, secure and parked safely.Contact police on 101 or 999 in an emergency if you are the victim of, or witness to, a theft from a vehicle or notice any suspicious activity.The Lanarkshire Live app is available to download now.

Get all the news from your area – as well as features, entertainment, sport and the latest on Lanarkshire’s recovery from the coronavirus pandemic – straight to your fingertips, 24/7.The free download features the latest breaking news and exclusive stories, and allows you to customise your page to the sections that matter most to you.Head to the App Store and never miss a beat in Lanarkshire - iOS - Android The following advice has been issued by officers to lessen the chances of people becoming victims of thefts from their vehicles:– Where possible, park in well-lit areas with foot traffic, and ideally CCTV cameras, or where you can see your vehicle from where you’re working.– Fit a secure van vault for expensive tools.

They come in a range of sizes and can be bolted to the cargo floor.– Security marking your tools using an Secured by Design (SBD) marking/etching kit is a visible deterrent and an established method of reducing theft.– Tools and other property can be registered on an SBD approved Tool and Asset database.

These can assist the police to trace stolen property back to the owner and prove it was stolen.– Advertise the fact you use a security system for your van and tools with a sticker on the vehicle.