What can you do?
Ultra Violet Marking
Marking is fairly straight forward, use an ultra violet pen
to 'invisibly' mark most surfaces. The pens are
obtainable from us or DIY stores.
To start with, mark your property with your house number and your postcode. Your postcode will identify one side of a road. Add your house number to the end of the postcode, for example:
CM12 9AB 4
So what if you move? Simply draw a line through the original mark (so it can still be read) and write the new one next to it, for example:
CM12 9AB 4 = CM11 2BN 23
A thief would try to obliterate the original and maybe put their own code on the property. By making an easy route to check the old address, the Police can easily identify possible stolen goods.
Ceramic marking pens are available that will mark china, glass or any glazed surface. They do not cut or scratch the surface, but do leave a permanent mark.
Heavier metal items, such as tools and lawn mowers can be marked with punches or etchers. We have them available on free loan if you would like to borrow a set.
Where you mark is important. Place the mark Out of sight, such as underneath the article - but not hidden so that the Police could not find it.
What to mark? Any goods that could be stolen, this includes TV sets, radios, CDs and all other portable valuables. If it can be removed and it has value to you, then mark it.
Jewellery.
This is not easy to mark, Photography is the answer
jewellery and other valuables (such as ornaments) - use a
dark background and place a ruler near the object to give
an indication of size.
Keep a record of valuables Write a list of all your
valuables. It will be helpfull if they are stolen and aid you
with insurance claims. It is not easy to try and recall list
of what you have.
Need more help?
We have a good selections of pamphlets and books on
property marking, as well as tools that will help you.
Get in touch with us at the Police station.
