Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk THE door industry journal summer 2024 113 A regular comment column brought to you by Claire Blakemore, Managing Director at Mul-T-Lock UK The Rise in Vehicle Crime Vehicle crime, particularly tool theft from vans, has been on a troubling rise. Recent figures revealed 207 reports of tool theft in one county alone last year, up from 171 in 2022. This alarming trend underscores the growing need to deliver robust security measures to protect valuable equipment. The increase in tool theft has severe repercussions for tradespeople who rely on their tools for their livelihoods. Police have urged tradespeople and homeowners to mark their tools wherever possible. Vehicle security experts recommend several preventative measures. Tools should be kept in secure containers, van owners should photograph their equipment and serial numbers should be recorded. Despite these precautions, the scale of the problem remains vast. In 2023, nearly £100 million worth of equipment was stolen nationally from tradespeople, with a tool-related theft reported every 12 minutes. Vans are particularly targeted, given their role as mobile workshops for many tradespeople. James Dallas, editor of What Van?, highlighted the severity of the issue, saying, “It’s always been a problem, but I think it’s a problem that is probably getting worse.” This sentiment is echoed by many within the industry who have witnessed firsthand the impact of these crimes on their businesses and livelihoods. The financial burden of replacing stolen tools and the potential loss of work due to these thefts can be devastating. More effective security measures are needed. To combat the surge in vehicle crime, we have a responsibility and duty of care as an industry to deliver necessary security solutions and partnerships. Mul-T-Lock offers its MVP1000 and MVP2000 commercial vehicle locking solutions, designed to provide maximum security, ensuring that valuable tools and equipment are well-protected. These locks serve as a powerful visual deterrent, making it significantly more difficult for opportunistic thieves to gain access to vans and their contents. MVP1000 and MVP2000 vehicle locking solutions are engineered with robust materials and advanced locking mechanisms that withstand tampering and forced entry attempts. Their visible presence alone can deter thieves, as breaking through these locks requires time and effort, increasing the risk of being caught. These locks not only safeguard equipment but also provide peace of mind for tradespeople. By incorporating these van lock systems into their security strategy, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of theft and protect their investments and their livelihoods. Claire Blakemore Managing Director Mul-T-Lock UK For more information, please visit www.mul-t-lock.co.uk .
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