NEWS - Tackling Church Metal Theft
Churches across the UK are experiencing an increase in crime as the price of scrap metal has doubled in the last 5 years, making it a valuable target for criminals.
To tackle this widespread problem, GB Security Group recently attended two Metal Theft Seminars in Horncastle and Lincoln to offer advice to local church committee representatives.
The seminars were very well attended, highlighting how much of a problem metal theft has become in Lincolnshire. Speakers from English Heritage, Lincolnshire Police, Ecclesiastical Insurance and SmartWater all gave information on what they were each doing to tackle the problem and what a devastating effect it has on not only the Church building but also the surrounding communities.
GB Security Group attended along with other security providers to offer our advice to committee representatives and Church Wardens as well as showcase the innovations we have developed to tackle this problem.
Our Video Verification CCTV System has been developed specifically for use in churches across the UK. Using completely wireless detectors incorporating a motion sensor, night vision digital camera and infrared illuminators, self-powered with a 2 year battery life, will ensure that crimes will no longer go undetected.
Utilising the very latest technologies, GBSG has developed this CCTV system to work seamlessly with our NSI Gold approved Remote Video Response Centre (RVRC), providing you with protection 24/7. For more information on the Video Verification CCTV System click here.
Metal thefts from Churches in the Lincoln area have increased from 10 in 2006 to more than 80 in 2010 with claims totalling more than £180,000.
John Coates, from Ecclesiastical Insurance, said the rise in thefts coincided with the rise in scrap metal prices worldwide and that Ecclesiastical Insurance encourages churches to install appropriate security measures to cut the number of lead thefts.
Inspector Phil Baker said, “We are calling for the public to take a real interest in the security of their local church. We all have a responsibility and a role to play in making our communities safe and if we work together we can make a real impact on this issue.”
GBSG director Neil Jackson said of the new system, “Due to an increase in enquiries from local Churches requesting security measures and the resulting surveys carried out onsite we developed the new Video Verification CCTV System.”
He continued, “The new system offers many additional benefits including quick installation, no cabling as it is completely wireless and it operates over the mobile phone network so does not require the installation of a telephone line, ensuring no installation damage to the building.”
Feedback from the event was very positive, with attendees commenting on how happy they were that something was finally being done to tackle the metal theft problem. Operation Brompton which focuses on the broader issue of metal theft is underway and officers have asked the public to report any suspicious activities near churches.
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