Code Your Property
Marking your possessions puts burglars off
The best thing you can do is to protect your home against intruders. But if someone did break in and steal your property how could you identify it?
Every year a large quantity of stolen property is recovered by the police but not returned to its rightful owners simply because it cannot be identified. If the property cannot be identified then the police may not be able to prove them stolen and the police may then have to give the property back to the thieves and let them go.
Why Thieves Hate Identifiable PropertyTo a thief your property is just an easy way of making some cash, even if to you there might be items of sentimental value. They hate marked property because:
- it is dangerous to handle - they do not want to be caught in possession of stolen property
- it is difficult to sell on - there is less demand for items that are to be obviously stolen
So you can put off burglars by marking you property and advertising that you have done so by displaying a sticker anywhere where the burglar might try to entr you property e.g. on your doors and windows.
Postcode Your Property
Using your postcode is an easy way to identify your property. Take your postcode and add your house or flat number e.g. for house number 21 it could be AB6 8DN 21.
If you do not know your postcode visit www.royalmail.com and then click on 'postcode finder'.
How To Mark Your Property
There are a number of ways to,mark your property - choose the one that is most suitable for each item.
Punching
You can use this method to mark heavier metal items, for example, lawnmowers and bicycles. Using a set of numbered and lettered punches and a hammer you can make a permanent record of your postcode on your property.
Engraving or Etching
Engraving or etching is ideal for hard surfaces and can be done using an electric engraving tool or a hand engraver. This method leaves a visible and permanent mark that is difficult to remove.
Ultraviolet Marking
A UV (ultraviolet) marker pen can put an invisible mark on your property that can only be seen using an UV lamp. It can be used when more permanent methods are not suitable. The disadvantage of this method is that the mark can fade with time, especially when exposed to sunlight, and can be washed off. Renew it periodically.
Ceramic Marking
Ceramic marking pens hve been developed to mark glass, china etc. They do not cut or scratch the surface but do leave a permanent mark.
Marking and Registration Services
There are a number of commercial organisations offering property marking and asset registration services.
Whichever method you choose make sure the mark is in a location where the police will find it e.g. at the back or underneath the object.
Don't encourage thieves
Don't buy items that you think may be stolen
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