Considering the discussion in other threads, I thought it would be appropriate to create a new thread about tool theft.
More specifically preventing tool theft.
Thieves specifically target construction sites as prime locations get tools and valuable construction components. Most construction sites are frequented by trucks load and unloading things, so it does not seem particularly suspicious for some thieves to show up and throw a bunch of tools in a truck and take off.
That's why it is so important that one of the first tasks in undertaking any construction project is to create a very secure location to store tools.
I offer the following suggestions:
- Be extremely diligent about not leaving tools laying around the worksite. They are eye candy for thieves. You also will have a safer worksite, and will more easily be able to find your tools when you need them if you don't leave them laying around.
- The above suggestion includes not leaving tools laying around visible in your truck or other vehicle. Get or build a toolbox or truck bed cover with quality lock. This will discourage the casual thief, and slow down the habitual thief.
- I have frequently suggested that it is best for someone to build a small shed for a first structure. The primary reason I have suggested this in the past has been because it gives the builder experience and the chance to make mistakes on a smaller less expensive project. Another important reason is that the shed is extremely useful on a construction site. It provides a location where tools and materials can be locked up.
- Take the time to introduce yourself to your neighbors before you start building. Make sure they know what your vehicles look like. Make sure they have a way to contact you if they see something that might be suspicious. Not to mention the fact that neighbors can often become friends, and even provide help at critical moments during construction.
- Bright Florescent Pink spray paint. Seriously. Spray paint your tools a bright "girly" color. While this is not a 100% deterrent, with a surprising frequency it does repel many "macho" type construction males. They don't want to be joked about having those feminine pink tootie fruity tools, so many macho guys tend leave them alone. Besides, when it is time to clean up at the end of the workday, it's sure a lot easier to find your tools if they are bright pink. Also, it's trivial to spot your tools if another worker helping you puts one of your tools in his or her toolbox.
- If ONE tool gets stolen... expect thieves to come back... within a day or two. The first theft from your site will often be by one guy who grabbed what he could easily carry. When he comes back, he will probably bring friends and a big truck to haul a lot more stuff. So once that first tool disappears it is critical to immediately stop everything and clean up. Lock all the tools away, and report the theft to the police. Realistically the police report probably will not get that first tool returned, but it is possible. Far more importantly is to make police aware that thieves have discovered your construction site. Encourage the police to drive by your site, especially at night. Most cops I have met would much rather arrest a thief than hand out traffic tickets.
- Just as important as getting to know your neighbors, get to know your local police/sheriff. If you happen to see the local guys in uniform around town or near your site, walk up and introduce yourself. Offer them a cold beverage (even if they refuse, they will appreciate the offer.) Cops are humans and they will be much more likely to assist you if they have some type of personal familiarity with you.
- If you are particularly bold... once that first theft at your construction site occurs... stake out your site at night for the next day or two. Thieves tend to strike quickly after they discover a target. It's not unheard of for an owner of a construction site to defend his property with his own firearms. Just make sure you don't shoot your neighbor out for a nightly stroll or walking their dog. It makes a lot more sense to have a cell phone to call the cops to have the professionals come an grab the culprits while you stay hidden and possibly even follow them until the cops can get there.
I am confident that there are a lot more ideas that I have missed. Those are simply the first ideas to pop into my head on the topic.
Please feel free to add your suggestions to the list.
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