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Marine thefts continue to
occur on a daily basis within the province. As more and more cottagers are
weekend only residents, the opportunity for thefts increase during the
days following the weekend visit. The thefts can occur by amateurs who
strike where they find an easy opportunity, however they can also come as
a result of a targeted attack by an organized theft ring.
There are several factors
that influence these crimes and they can be easier than you think to
combat. By practicing some common sense Crime Prevention Measures,
reducing the number of thefts is something that everyone can help out
with. Keep in mind that the three major factors that influence a theft is:
TIME – NOISE- VISIBILITY.
In
considering boat security, try to think like a criminal. What factors
about your boat or moorage would make it an easy target for a thief?
Remove Equipment and
Tackle:
The best way to keep
thieves from stealing property from boats is to not leave valuables
aboard. Most thefts occur because boat owners simply fail to remove items
from boats, making them easy targets. Removing marine electronics, fishing
tackle, and equipment from boats would eliminate the majority of thefts
that occur in the marine environment.
Equipment
Identification:
Boat owners and fishermen
should mark all equipment, including rods, reels, and tackle boxes (and
contents). Make a complete inventory of your equipment, boat, motors, and
trailer and record the serial numbers. Remember that most marine
electronics, fish locators, depth finders, GPS devices, VHF radios, stereo
systems, battery chargers, and expensive reels also have serial numbers.
When provided to police, these serial numbers can then be listed in the
Canadian Police Information Center (C.P.I.C.) stolen file. In the event of
any type of loss, this information will prove invaluable in making a
prompt, accurate report for police and insurance personnel. Having this
information will assist officers in identifying the owners of the gear if
the stolen property is recovered.
Outboard Motors:
Remove small outboard
motors from boats that will be left unattended for an extended period of
time. An alternative to removing these motors would be to add an outboard
motor lock, which can make them somewhat more secure. While these devices
can be pried off, the time and noise involved will make it more trouble
than it is worth for many thieves.
Boat Propellers:
Premium stainless steel
boat props are expensive items that are popular targets for thieves.
After-market prop locks are available and are a worthwhile investment.
Removing the prop and storing it away from the vessel in a secure location
is a good thought. Boats on Trailers: Boats on Trailers are the most
frequent targets of marine theft. Stealing a boat is much easier if a
thief can hitch up to your boat and trailer and drive away. These tips may
help: |
