In a concerning trend this year, tools, materials, and even household items have been disappearing from more than 200 construction sites across Durham. The Durham Police Department issued a crime alert on Friday, revealing that 202 thefts were reported between January 1 and September 30, marking a 32% increase from the same period in 2023, when 153 thefts were recorded.
With thefts on the rise, police have shared a list of recommendations aimed at helping construction companies and contractors safeguard their equipment. One unconventional but potentially effective tip is to “smudge the machines with paint,” making it harder for stolen items to be resold online.
Additional safety measures suggested include staying vigilant for vehicles that may be following you and being aware of your surroundings at all times. For those in lawn care, specific advice was given: ensure backpack sprayers and weed eaters are securely locked when not in use.
The police have also provided a comprehensive list of precautions for construction workers:
• Secure all equipment before leaving the job site.
• Use fences and locked gates to deter unauthorized access.
• Install security cameras to monitor the area.
• Add tracking systems, such as Apple Air Tags, to high-value equipment.
• Maintain a detailed and recorded inventory of materials.
• Avoid leaving tools unattended or out in the open.
When it comes to securing equipment, law enforcement recommends using U-Locks, which they describe as “very difficult to break.” For additional protection, they advise using thick chains and strong locks made of durable steel, capable of withstanding bolt cutters.
Stay tuned to Bull City Citizen for more updates on crime trends and local safety initiatives, and remember to sign up for our newsletter for the latest in Durham’s crime news.
