POLICE have urged tradies to lock up their tools after a recent spate of thefts in the West.
The warning comes after a number of tool thefts from vehicles in the Wyndham, Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay areas.
Leading Senior Constable Craig McDonald said thieves have been targeting vans and utes parked in residential streets during the night, stealing tools ranging from hammers to expensive power tools.
Leading Sen Const McDonald said there were a number of measures tradespeople could take to avoid their belongings getting stolen.
“Always make sure you lock up your van and secure building sites after you’ve finished for the day – use bigger and more secure locks,” he said.
“Make a habit of taking an extra couple of minutes to back the vehicle into the shed. Make sure any tools are covered up and out of view.
“If you’ve got an alarm fitted to your vehicle, make sure you set it.”
Police have also advised tradesmen and women to get their tools engraved so they can be easily recognised when thieves attempt to sell them at second-hand shops.
Police said they would continue to investigate tool thefts from vehicles in the West and urged anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
