Shed break-ins prompt warning (From This Is Wiltshire)

Shed break-ins prompt warning

2:52pm Thursday 20th December 2007 in

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A SPATE of shed break-ins has prompted police in Calne to appeal to the public in the run-up to Christmas.

Over the past three weeks 24 garden sheds across the town have been targeted by thieves who have stolen bikes, power tools and fishing kits.

PC Steve Dixon from Calne police said: "We all put a little bit of extra stuff in the shed at this time of year so people need to be extra vigilant.

"I don't think there is any need for panic as long as people protect their sheds properly."

Leaflets have been distributed in Calne to advise people on how to secure their belongings in the run-up to the festive period.

PC Dixon said marking property kept in sheds with an etching tool or UV pen could help boost security.

He said: "These thieves find it easy to resell the goods they have stolen as they take them to boot sales.

"Marking things with your postcode can help."

Police are also advising people to take a note of serial numbers and take photos of anything valuable they are keeping in their shed.

PC Dixon added: "The door, doorframe and walls of the shed should be sound.

"Door hinges should be secured and people should use good quality shackle padlocks to make sure the shed is secure.

"Consider lining the shed with plywood sheeting as this is difficult for a criminal to get through, or using a battery operated alarm available from DIY stores."

Inspector Gavin Williams, of Chippenham police, said: "As it is coming up to Christmas, people are bound to have bought things and will be looking for extra storage.

"I would ask people to be mindful and make sure their sheds are secure.

"Someone is going to know who is responsible for these attacks and I would ask for witnesses to come forward."

Anyone with any information can contact police on 0845 408 7000.