Melksham Police Offer Advise to Rural Communities

In the run up to Christmas, Melksham Police are offering security advice to prevent thefts from sheds, garages and outbuildings.

The Wiltshire Police Rural Crime Team will hold their second Security Road Show on the 2nd November at Rye Hill Barn, Longbridge Deverall, Warminster.

PC John Bordiss of the RCT said: 'Mark it or lose it. Unless you can link the property to you, you are less likely to get it back if stolen. Whether it's your laptop or your horse's saddle, always record serial numbers/ security stamps and preferably register with a property site such as immobilise.com.

Isolated locations are difficult to secure, but ensuring outbuildings/sheds are locked, fitting security lighting, alarms and signs, gives clear warning which can deter theft.'

The RCT's Top Tips:

1. Ensure your shed is well maintained, especially around doors and surrounds.

2. Secure shed door hinges and pad bars with threaded coach bolts with back plates.

3. Use good quality close padlocks or fit a shed alarm or alarm padlock.

4. Consider lining your shed and boarding up the window.

5. Secure garage doors in more than one place.

6. IRegister all equipment that has a serial number with Immobilise.com. Mark other items with coloured paint or your house number.

7. Chain and padlock tools through their handles to large heavy items such as lawn mowers or a bucket filled with concrete.

8. Mark bikes and register them  with Immobilise.com and Bikeregister.com. Keep them chained and locked even within a locked garage.

9. Check that your insurance cover includes items in your shed and garage.

Contact police on 101 if you see anything suspicious.