Protect Your Metal.
Date Published: 01/09/2012
How to protect your metal
There has recently been an increase in the amount of metal that is being stolen, such as lead and copper. It is being stolen in many forms, including electricity and telephone cables, gas piping, drain covers and even train lines.
To some, this may seem like a minor crime but the knock on effects are huge and potentially deadly. Electricity and gas supplies have been cut off and the damage being caused to the gas pipes and electricity lines can make them extremely dangerous. Phone lines are also being damaged, which could affect your ability to contact the emergency services, should you need us.
What are the Police doing about this?
Our priority is to stop this type of crime. This includes ...
• Working closely with local scrap dealers to identify those responsible for the thefts and stop them selling the stolen goods on, illegally earning money.
• Carrying out warrants and arresting those responsible for the thefts and damage.
• Using forensic marking products to mark metal in the area. Anyone arrested, regardless of the crime, will be tested for traces of the liquid, which can’t be washed off. Anyone found to have it on their clothing or skin can be linked to the scene of the crime.
What can you do?
• Let us know if you see anything unusual in your neighbourhood. This could be anything from unknown vans parked up in the area, to the arrival of unexpected workmen.
• Think about where there is metal in your home and take steps to secure it. For example you may have a lead roof, drain pipes or copper boilers. Don’t leave ladders lying around which could make it easy for thieves to access these materials. If there are any empty houses in your street, keep an eye on them too.
• If you have lead flashing stolen from your property, consider replacing it with non-lead based flashing products which are available.
• Consider joining your local Neighbourhood Watch or if one doesn’t exist, start your own! For more details visit: www.ourwatch.org.uk