Incident shows importance of securing power tools

Power tools, such as those produced by Makita, are highly valuable items. They can be indispensible for the workmen and DIY enthusiasts who use them when completing projects. But it is vital that people protect their power tools and keep them safe, as one criminal incident has shown.

Earlier this month, hundreds of pounds worth of equipment was stolen from a shed in St Helen Auckland, the Northern Echo reports. The devices, which included a Makita electric plane, were taken from a shed on Louisa Terrace.Like many crimes of this kind, it occurred during the night. Unsurprisingly thieves prefer to operate under the cover of darkness as they are more likely to get away without being spotted. As well as the electric plane, a number of drills were taken and the total amount lost by the owner was £835.

Commenting on the incident, PC Stewart Walker, who is investigating the burglary, said: “Some smaller hand tools were left behind nearby and their condition would suggest the break-in had occurred not too long before 8am.” Police are now appealing for more information concerning the crime, as well as on the whereabouts of the stolen items.

Another recent incident that illustrated the need to keep close control of equipment occurred in North Yorkshire. Tools worth in excess of £5,000 were taken from a business in the area, the Gazette & Herald reports.Thieves forced their way into City Electrical Factors, which is based on Finkells Way industrial estate in Northallerton. They made their entry through a rear fire door and walked off with items including hammer drills.

As with the other incident, individuals who believe they may possess relevant information about the crime have been asked to come forward.Tradesmen and consumers who own devices of this nature need to make sure they are kept in as safe a place as possible and they also ought to ensure they have sufficient insurance in case of theft.