Safer Neighbourhoods

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From time to time Ruislip Online is sent information from the Safer Neighbourhoods Team of the Metropolitan Police.

Over the last few months, due to the global increase in the value of scrap metal such as lead and copper, there has been an increase in the theft of lead and other metals from large buildings such as churches, and schools across Hillingdon borough. Police are working to apprehend offenders but are writing to you to make you aware of the problem, and to suggest ways you can reduce the risk to YOUR premises.

In many cases a theft may be avoided by simply making it difficult to access the roof of your premises without a ladder. In addition, most lead thieves need to use a van to remove their spoils, or to bring ladders to the scene. Good fencing, gating and the use of appropriate barriers to hinder the entry of a vehicle to your grounds will help to reduce the risk. Good lighting will also assist to make YOUR premises a less attractive proposition!

Hillingdon borough has a dedicated team of crime prevention officers who will be happy to visit you to give advice tailored to YOUR particular circumstances. To make an appointment please call 020 8246 1778 and your crime prevention officer will contact you as soon as possible.

As well as making improvements to the security of your premises there are ways you can make the lead on your roof less attractive. One method is to use a marking grease containing a DNA type forensic fingerprint to paint the lead. One such product called “Select DNA” does not dry out so once applied will not only protect and mark the lead but will also mark the skin, clothing and vehicles of any criminals removing it. Further information may be obtained from www.selectdna.co.uk (Please note – other marking products are also available).

As an ultimate deterrent it may be best – (subject to all necessary permissions being obtained) to have your lead replaced with a suitable alternative.

Flash Band & Flash band primer, comes in different lengths and widths, it can be purchased from most DIY stores and is inexpensive to purchase. It has no second hand value and is destroyed if any attempt is made to remove it. It can be applied to most surfaces. It can be applied with primer to assist it to adhere to smooth surfaces such as glass and wood. Flash band is placed on the roof and pressed down with a cloth. It is recommended that it be warmed up slightly by a blowtorch, which heats up the bitumen backing and helps it stick and assists in shaping it to the natural contours of the roof etc. (NB. This must be applied by a competent person/trades person)

For further information on these products contact a reputable builder or your local builder’s merchant.