By Shauna Krause, President, Capitol Services, Inc.
They don’t just grow legs and walk away so the Contractor’s Board is warning contractors to watch their tools as we report in this issue. Technology has raised the ‘ante’ and the ‘stakes’ are high as thieves know how to ‘cash’ them in. What can you do? Read this first!...
The CSLB says construction tools and equipment become more advanced and valuable each year making them easy targets for thieves looking to make a quick buck off your property. The Board reminds contractors that taking precautionary measures can help alleviate thefts.
Tool boxes affixed to vehicles and storage containers housing equipment are magnets for lawbreakers. Bolt cutters can remove security locks. These thieves target the darkest hours of the night through early morning. At Capitol Services we have heard of entire trailers disappearing in the night!
Spend a little save a lot? A small investment in security cameras and parking in well-lit areas can help protect vehicles and worksites. Video also helps catch crooks. With the use of surveillance footage as evidence criminals convict themselves.
To further protect equipment, contractors might consider permanently labeling their items. One method includes engraving tools and equipment with a personal name, business name, or CSLB License Number. The engraved information could ultimately lead to the tool’s recovery or could deter thieves since they may have a difficult time grinding off the information.
Here’s a great suggestion for both contractors and consumers. Every power tool should be immediately logged by photo and serial number. By taking the time to inventory tools, you will have a record if something were to go missing, which may help when filing insurance claims. This also gives law enforcement the true owner’s information if tools are evidence or recovered.
For taking more action in deterring thieves, local authorities provide services, such as conducting field interviews of suspicious individuals even if a crime has not been committed. Contact your local non-emergency dispatch office to report questionable behavior. Capitol Connection reminds us, contractors and the public are ‘extra’ eyes for law enforcement and reporting suspicious behavior is better safe than sorry!
While knowledge is power, knowing where to go for the answers is half the battle. Get expert assistance immediately when you call 866-443-0657, emailinfo@cutredtape.com, or write us at Capitol Services, Inc., 1225 8th St. Ste. 500, Sacramento, CA 95814. Research past columns at www.cutredtape.com.
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