Tradies, keep tools secure

Tradies are among thieves’ favourite targets, but Victoria Police have provided some key tips on ensuring you’re not the next target of a theft.

Keep wallets and car keys in your possession, and never leave documents in your car – your address may be used to locate your home and break into your car or home later. You should also make sure house keys or garage door remotes aren’t left in the car as they can be left in burglaries.

Recording serial/model numbers, and taking photos of your tools, can be vital in helping police find them if they are stolen. If possible, engraving or marking tools with the letter ‘V’ for Victoria and your driver’s licence number will also help police identify and return any of your stolen tools.

When leaving your vehicle unattended, lock all doors and windows, and consider investing in a sturdy, lockable ute toolbox to bolt to your ute’s tray.

Installing an alarm on your toolboxes, vehicle and trailer, and parking in a garage or somewhere with CCTV and sensor lighting will also deter criminals.

To keep your construction site secure, consider installing monitored onside CCTV, audible alarms, and good lighting, ensuring the worksite is secured when leaving, and locking work vehicles when you’re away from the vehicle.

Securing equipment in storage containers with heavy duty padlocks and chains is an excellent way to keep any work tools secure.

For emergencies, call Triple Zero (000). For non-emergencies, call the Police Assistance Line (PAL) on 131 444, report online at www.police.vic.gov.au, or in-person at your local police station.

To report information anonymously, call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.