The Village Police Department is asking boat owners to take extra steps to reduce the risk of thefts from boats. Recently, depth finders, radios, GPS systems and other electronics have been the target of thieves at docks, at boats parked at homes and in marinas. Here are some ways to reduce the chances of being a victim:
- Have your electronics bolted and not tap screwed in. Most brands make a bracket to install behind it to secure it better.
- Cover the boat and/or equipment. The more steps a thief has to take to steal something, the more likely they are to move on to another place.
- Use wi-fi cameras or a Ring camera system.
- Keep a copy of equipment serial numbers and photos. Officers can't enter stolen electronics in a database unless they have a serial number.
- Use motion detection lighting with battery power, or one that plugs into your boat’s power.
- The Police Department recommends use of a Lower Unit locks (the transmission attached to the engine). This part of a boat is a very common item to be stolen.
- Call 911 if you see anything or anyone suspicious.
Ed Cunningham
Communications Manager
Village of North Palm Beach
(561) 904-2138
Original source can be found here.