Police are urging van owners to be vigilant and do their best to beat thieves following a spate of thefts in north Cumbria.
Vans in the Penrith area have been targeted in recent weeks, with thieves breaking in and taking tools.
A number of vehicles were targeted overnight on the 20th and 21st of March in Penrith on Brent Road, Roman Road, Wordsworth Street, Arthur Street and Macadam Way.
Inspector Joanne Walker of the Eden neighbourhood policing team said: “Investigations are underway into these thefts and would we would like to remind van owners to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves.
“Tool theft is anything but a victimless crime.
“It not only hurts financially in terms of replacement tools – but also lost work for those who need them as part of their job.
“I’d ask everyone to be vigilant and follow the advice we are issuing to protect your possessions.”
Security advice includes:
- If possible avoid leaving tools in a vehicle overnight and even when on a job.
- Park your van in a garage or well-lit area.
- Keep tools out of sight and locked in a secure storage container or chained to the chassis.
- Consider installing an alarm and an immobiliser.
- Mark your tools. Visible markings may deter some criminals.
- Report suspicious activity.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101. Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
