Shoppers urged to security mark high value purchases by police and high street retailer

Police in Wrexham have teamed up with a retailer to encourage shoppers to security mark their high value purchases.

Working with Curry’s on Plas Coch Retail Park, the force has developed a booklet suggesting that customers record the serial numbers of their purchases to help officers to find them should they it ever be stolen.

The plan is then to roll it out the scheme throughout other local retailers across Wrexham.

PC Gareth Roberts, who is behind the initiative, said: “With Christmas around the corner the initiative is aimed as a reminder and practical advice for people to take security measures to deter theft.

“Your possessions are valuable to you, but to a thief they are just another way of making easy cash.

“If stolen, you may be able to replace your TV, video and games console, but do you own things that would be impossible to replace? These might include items of sentimental value.

“Could you describe what you have lost fully and accurately to the police? It’s not as easy as it sounds when all you have to rely on is your memory.

“Why not lay out your valuables on a plain cloth and take a photograph of them? This will not only help describe them, but also help prove their existence and your ownership in the event of a theft. Start cataloguing your valuables and property marking them.”

“There are several ways to mark your property depending on the type of object. You can get ‘easy to use’ kits from stationers, DIY stores or Neighbourhood Watch groups.

“Engraving or etching, Ultra Violet or ‘Invisible’ Marking using an ultra-violet (UV) pen can put an invisible mark on your property, which can only been seen by using a UV lamp.

“Some products, including certain TV’s, now allow you to record your details electronically. This is normally done during the setting up phase of installing your TV and is protected by a pin code.”

“If you are buying a bike as a Christmas present check out : https://www.bikeregister.com/ for security tips.

“Officers from the Rhosddu and Acton Policing team area also planning a bike marking scheme in the New Year. Details will be released nearer the time.”