East Durham Homes gets SmartWater
East Durham Homes is working with local Police to try and prevent thefts of precious metal from empty properties. EDH has started using 'SmartWater' technology to protect empty properties that are a target for lead and copper thieves. SmartWater will be applied to all empty EDH properties on anything lead, copper or other valuable items.
SmartWater is a revolutionary forensic coding system, which protects property and deters criminals. The clear liquid which glows under a special ultra violet light can be easily brushed onto anything in a home, commercial premise or vehicle. Each batch of SmartWater has a unique DNA code, which enables Police to trace stolen items back to the owner. If criminals were found in possession of SmartWatered goods they would be clearly linked to the crime and increases the likelihood of them being prosecuted.
Graeme Davison, Crime Prevention Officer said "It is now clear that lead is rapidly becoming the stolen material of choice among the criminals in the Easington area. As a result roofing lead and other items have been targeted by thieves in our area. As well as the replacement cost of the lead, the resultant damage to the building and contents can become very costly. EDH properties have been a target for these criminals and by introducing the SmartWater scheme we hope to prevent this type of crime occurring."
Ian Vickers, East Durham Homes Regeneration Manager said "Theft from empty properties that are scheduled for regeneration or redevelopment has become a serious problem for us. By using SmartWater we hope this will deter further break-ins, if not, stolen items which have been marked can be traced back to us and the criminal prosecuted."
Properties which have been treated with the system will be marked with the special SmartWater logo on the shutters/doors.
If you have any information regarding thefts of lead or copper in the area please telephone the Police on 0845 60 60 365, or make your call to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.