East Kilbride News

Top tips to prevent rural crime

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Chief Inspector Gillian Scott reviews the past week’s incidents of crime, operations and police initiative­s in East Kilbride and Strathaven...

This week we have received three reports of thefts from rural properties in the Strathaven area.

Tackling rural crime is a priority in our Lanarkshir­e Division and local officers are carrying out enquiries into these thefts. It’s important for our rural community to ensure that their farms, properties and outbuildin­gs are secure.

Here are some tips on how to protect your farm perimeter, farmhouse, outbuildin­gs, sheds and machinery: Firstly, try to reduce access by removing all gates and entrances that are no longer in use and consider replacing them with a permanent fence or other barrier.

Ensure that you secure all gates with good padlocks and repair fencing promptly to prevent/restrict any future unauthoris­ed access.

Consider fitting British Standard keyoperate­d locks to all ground floor and accessible windows and mortice locks to all outside doors. Make use of timing devices on interior lights when your house is unoccupied and keep doors locked when no one is home.

All property should be uniquely marked, photograph­ed and recorded in an asset register that includes serial and model numbers.

Ensure that all external doors are of solid constructi­on. Where possible try to hide the contents from view using protective grilles on windows and ensure property is locked away at night or when not in use.

Park machinery and equipment as close to your premises as possible, preferably out of sight from nearby roads and always remove keys when not in use.

Your local Safer Communitie­s Officers are hosting a Rural Crime Awareness Day in partnershi­p with the National Farmers Union at East Merkland Farm between 10.30am and 1.30pm on Tuesday, August 9.

This event is an opportunit­y for local farmers to receive invaluable crime prevention advice and speak to local officers about their rural crime concerns. Speakers at the event will provide informatio­n on property marking, livestock theft and farm security.

To book your place please call 0131 472 4000 or text CRIME and your name(s) to 0778979658­2 by Friday, August 5.

 ??  ?? Chief Inspector Gillian Scott
Chief Inspector Gillian Scott

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