Property marking - how you can keep your contents safe

Each year many thousands of pounds worth of property is recovered by the police, but the identity of the true owner cannot be established. If the worst does happen and you are burgled then you have a better chance of getting your property back if it is properly marked.

Ultra-Violet pens are cheap and ideal for marking TV's, Hi Fi equipment, china and other ornaments. Simply write your postcode followed by the house number or the first three letter of your house name. Mark the items underneath as the marking can be slightly visible on non-porous surfaces.

With pedal cycles have the postcode etched into the frame. Many cycles shops will be able to do this for you.For small items like jewellery take photographs, putting the items against a ruler to indicate size.