Secure your valuables – a reminder!

Administrator, 16 January 2012

While it is the responsibility of clubs in the Spartan South Midlands Football League to provide lockable changing rooms for officials and players, we would like to remind our members that it is prudent to take responsibility for ensuring that their valuables are secure. This is particularly relevant in the light of a recent incident which, while not on our league, highlights the potential risks.

During the second half of a Southern League game at Uxbridge FC over Christmas, the players’ and referees’ changing rooms were ransacked with many valuable items stolen. One of the officials even had a car stolen. The link below is to an article on the Surrey FA website which provides further details.

Surrey FA – Important Notice to Referees

A few simple steps will help minimise the chance that you will become a victim of this type of crime.

Take the minimum with you to the game

Keep valuables hidden away in your vehicle, in the boot or out of site

Take your car keys with you, or leave them with someone you trust

Try to ensure that the club carries out their security responsibilities, waiting to see the rooms locked, if possible

Remember to consider all times that you are away from the changing rooms, not only during the game, but also during the pitch inspection and warm up

Lock your belongings away in the boot of your car, or keep them close, when enjoying the club hospitality after the game

Make sure you have the serial numbers for mobile phones, etc., as the police may not otherwise be able to return items if recovered