Lead Theft: How to prevent it happening to you

Schools and churches are often the hardest hit by lead theft.  Guttering and piping is often very easy to steal, but lead roofs are also at risk.

Lead theft protection for Churches

So, as a vicar or head teacher, what can you do to stop lead theft?

• Firstly knock on all the neighbouring houses and introduce yourself and explain the risk your church or school faces. If they are aware of the lead theft problem, they are more likely to notice and report suspicious vans.
• Ensure everyone has your telephone number so that they can call you when they do see something suspicious. Most people would prefer to check with you first before phoning the police and giving their name.
• Advertise that you are on the lookout for lead thieves with posters at entrances and outdoor notice boards.
• Never ever leave ladders out in the open or in unlocked sheds. You are just asking for your lead to be stolen. Choose good strong padlocks and make sure lead thieves can't look in.
• Start thinking about sensible crime prevention advice such as good security lighting and cutting down bushes or shrubs that are covering PIRs or sensors which turn on any outdoor security lighting
• Consider anti climb paint for drainpipes but remember, you can only use it on piping over 2m high and warning notices should always be used. You don't want a lead thief sueing you because they slipped down your lead pipes!
• Invest in some SelectaDNA Grease to paint on all access points to lead flashing, lead roofing and lead windows. It's quick to apply and really deters lead thieves. Don't forget to put up warning signs too - anything to suggest that your church is protected is a good thing.
• Finally, if you catch the raskals red-handed don't be afraid to call 999.

SelectaDNA Grease stops lead theft

SelectaDNA Grease allows schools and churches to permanently protect and mark lead windows, lead piping and lead roofing with a DNA impregnated Outdoor Grease that links Criminals to their crime scene. The DNA contained within every pot of SelectaDNA can be forensically analysed and the results used in a Court of Law for prosecution.

In use since 2005, the range of SelectaDNA forensic products is achieving reductions in burglaries and theft of up to 85%. UK Police Forces use it as a formidable theft deterent. Property marked and protected with DNA becomes too hot to handle and suddenly the second hand value of anything marked with it drops - well, like a lead baloon.

Call Selectamark now on 01689 860757.

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