Lorry drivers warned

The idea is financed by the Safer South Derbyshire Partnership, the notices carry the warning in eight languages including Czech, Dutch and German.

The partnership has also funded a three-week visit by a Truckpol vehicle – a large trailer with warning notices about load thefts emblazoned on it. It has been parked in lay-bys as a very visible reminder to freight operators of the need for caution.

Theft of loads and fuel from freight vehicles is a national issue which costs companies and ultimately consumers thousands of pounds. With major arterial routes, notably the A38 and A50, running through it, South Derbyshire has been affected.

From 1 January to 17 June this year six slashings of curtain side vehicles took place with fuel valued at around £20,000 and a load of toiletries worth £12,000 among goods taken.

For the same period in 2008, 25 incidents took place, so there has been a decrease over the past couple of years. In 2009 there were six incidents in the same period.

Chris Smith, Safer Communities Manager with the Safer South Derbyshire Partnership said: “We hope that the notices raise awareness about the issue of load thefts. While we have not seen huge numbers this year the crimes are high value.

“We urge any road freight operators either based in or making stops in South Derbyshire to take a few simple steps to help prevent becoming a victim. We advise that they vary their routes and stopping points, always lock their cabs, park close to other vehicles or walls if possible and avoid discussing their loads with other drivers and customers.”

The multi-lingual warning posters have been placed in lay-bys on both the east and west bound carriageways of the A50 and the Partnership says it will consider using the Truckpol trailer again if there is an increase in the number of incidents.

 
Release date: July 14, 2010