18/09/2026
TOTTON NPT UPDATE: Good afternoon. We hope you Friday is going well. 😊 If you're a tradesperson, please take a moment to watch the below short video, which contains lots of important advice from Totton NPT Local Bobby, PC Chungh. 👇
In the below text, there's also lots more top tips on how to protect your tools, or get them back if they are ever stolen. Please take a moment to read and share.
🚐 Don’t leave tools in your van overnight. Where possible, take your tools indoors every evening. Consider using signage that says “No tools left in this van overnight”.
🔩 Use a police-approved van vault. Look for Sold Secure Gold or Secured by Design certification. Bolt it to the van floor for added protection.
🪛 Mark tools with SelectaDNA - we often recover suspected stolen tools, but can't always reunite them with their rightful owner, due to them not being property marked and logged. Forensic marking deters resale and helps with recovery. Register tools and serial numbers on https://orlo.uk/cJCmR or https://orlo.uk/Cfkbm
🚨 Install smart alarms and GPS trackers. Look for Thatcham-approved systems. Alerts go straight to your phone for real-time protection.
🅿️ Park with purpose. Reverse into tight spots or against a wall. Park in lit, CCTV-covered areas where possible.
⚠️ Display tool theft warning stickers. Acts as a visual deterrent. Highlight GPS tracking and tool marking, such as SelectaDNA.
🎦 Secure sites with temporary CCTV and lighting. Use PIR floodlights and lockable tool cabins. Join a Business Crime Reduction Partnership if you're on larger sites.
✍️ Keep a digital inventory of all tools. Use free apps or services like www.secureassetregister.com. Log serial numbers, photos, and purchase dates.
🔒 Use double deadlocks and slamlocks on van doors. Upgrade factory locks to high-security aftermarket versions.
🧾 Choose the right tool insurance policy. Look for cover that includes tools left in vans overnight. Understand your policy’s lock and parking requirements
*NPT - Neighbourhood Policing Team
*Handi Hire, Water Lane, Totton at 9am on Wednesday 30 September