Prevention advice following spate of cable and copper thefts

Prevention advice following spate of cable and copper thefts

Following an increase in cable and copper thefts in the Yorkshire Coast and Ryedale areas, we are urging the public to remain vigilant and put preventative measures in place to reinforce their security during this time.

These thefts cause significant disruption, financial loss and safety risks for businesses and communities. Therefore, we are encouraging members of the public to report any suspicious activity. Below are some warning signs to watch out for and measures to take to ensure your property remains secure.

Some of the signs to look out for include:

Unmarked vehicles parked near access points, construction sites or storage facilities.

Unfamiliar individuals loitering around access points, depot entrances or areas where cable, copper or other valuable metals are stored.

Suspicious behaviour by employees or contractors that could indicate internal criminality.

Markers attached to perimeter fencing, gaps in boundaries or damage that may suggest criminal reconnaissance or illegal access.

Work taking place on construction or building sites outside normal working hours.

Unlocked gates or access points where there is no obvious work activity taking place.

Graffiti-style symbols or markings that could indicate sites have been identified as targets for theft.

Some preventative measures to consider:

Ensure CCTV systems are working and that images obtained are of good quality.

Check perimeter CCTV to make sure individual cameras are not obscured by trees or have been damaged and are still providing coverage of the appropriate perimeter points.

Ensure any alarm monitoring company has up to date contact details and has an effective escalation process should suspicious activity be seen at a site.

Check site access points to ensure they are secure. Report any insecurities or concerns you may have to the police.

Report any suspicious activity, or activity which is outside what you would normally expect to see, however insignificant it may seem.

Engage with the local community around your site and encourage them to report suspicious activity.

Suspicious incidents can be reported to police, or by calling Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. If your site is targeted, it is crucial that you report this to police. If a crime is in progress, dial 999. In a non-emergency situation, you can call police on 101.

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Message Sent By
Tom Stirling
(North Yorkshire Police, Corporate Communications Manager, North Yorkshire)