Crime prevention advice - Shed security/tools and property

Crime prevention advice - Shed security/tools and property

You would have recently received an MCV post about vehicle crime and crime in general starting earlier in the hours of darkness, this includes vehicle crimes, burglaries and shed breaks - Lets make it harder from this year going forward, lets make SWANLEY and HEXTABLE a tougher place to steal from and move the problem on to another neighbourhood officers patch :-) -

Before you put all your tools away for the winter please read below…….

🔒 Shed Security: Protect Your Tools & Bikes! 🚲🔧

Sheds are often targeted by thieves because they contain valuable items like bikes, power tools, and gardening equipment. Here are some simple steps you can take to keep your property safe:

1. Mark Your Property

Use a UV pen, engraving tool, or property marking kit to mark your postcode and house number on all valuable items (bikes, tools, lawnmowers, etc.).

Marking makes it harder for thieves to sell stolen goods and helps police return items if they’re recovered.

2. Register Your Items

Register bikes and tools on national property databases like Immobilise or BikeRegister. This increases the chances of getting them back if stolen.

3. Take Photos

Take clear photos of your valuables, including serial numbers and any unique features.

Store these photos somewhere safe (cloud storage or email them to yourself) so you can provide them to police or insurers if needed.

4. Secure Your Shed

Use strong padlocks and hasps on doors and windows.

Consider fitting a shed alarm or motion sensor light.

Keep valuables out of sight and lock them to something solid inside the shed.

5. Report Suspicious Activity

If you see anyone acting suspiciously around sheds or garages, report it to the police.

Let’s work together to keep our community safe! If you’d like more advice or a free shed security check, get in touch with your local Neighbourhood Beat Officer who will be happy to help.

If you found this message useful please “like” by clicking the thumbs up button below. Also please spread the word, share this message on social media and with your local networks to raise awareness by clicking the share button. Encouraging engagement from the wider community is key to preventing further incidents.

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Message Sent By
Steven Shipley
(Kent Police, PC, Swanley Neighbourhood Beat Officer)