by Alan Quick

POLICE have received a number of reports about tools being stolen from work vans in the Crediton and Mid Devon area.

A number of incidents occurred overnight of Tuesday and Wednesday, February 27 and 28.

Police confirmed that vans have been entered by forcing and damaging door locks, with power and hand tools being targeted.

Devon and Cornwall Police has issued advice as to how to prevent such thefts and where to report anything suspicious.

The police say trade vans parked overnight are most likely to be targeted.

Tradesmen and women are advised that because their tools are their livelihood, losing them can cause far greater loss than their financial value.

Suggestions of things to do to make a van and tools secure include:

• Upgrade the security on the van and fit an independent alarm, don’t rely on the factory fitted alarm. Select one accredited by ’Thatcham" and always use it. For details visit: www.thatcham.org .

• REGISTER property with the UK national property register via the website: www.immobilise.com .

• Alternatively contact the local vehicle dealership for advice and information on the latest security upgrades available.

• Fit additional locks on the van doors as some manufacturer’s locks can be picked, which will also disable the alarm.

• Fit a quality tool chest in the van and secure it with a "Sold Secure" padlock. For details visit: www.soldsecure.com .

• Mark tools so they can easily be identified.

Here are some suggestions how:• Engrave the owner’s name, telephone number and Postcode together with "IF SOLD CALL ME" on the tools• Spray paint the tools a bright colour such as hot pink. This literally makes them too hot to handle!

• Keep an up-to-date list of the tools, including photographs and serial numbers.

For more information, visit the website: www.dc.police.uk/toolsatrisk .

Advice is also available by emailing the police at: [email protected] or by calling 101.