7 Ways to Avoid the Risk of Golf Buggy Theft

The Motive Behind these Thefts

There has been a sharp increase in the theft of golf buggies and batteries in the UK according to a new report published by Zenith Insurance (click here to read the full report). In the period spanning May 2017 to January 2018, a large number of buggies and batteries were stolen in different parts of the UK including Orpington, Norfolk, Norwich, Kinloss, Worcester and Suffolk. Golf clubs have been recognised as the primary spots of theft.

Several of the thefts mentioned above occurred while people were out on the course using the buggies playing their round of golf. In several other cases, vehicles experienced extensive damage when their batteries were stolen directly from the vehicles whilst been stored on the course.

The thefts seem to be for the lead-acid batteries in the buggies. How the batteries are being used after the theft is a question that’s still to be answered. However; they are more likely being used as scrap, for resale or as a source to obtain materials for illegal practices.

In countries such as Canada and America, incidents of lead-acid battery thefts show an association with the manufacture of a very addictive form of the stimulant Crystal Meth, a Class-A drug. Manufacturing this drug requires huge quantities of battery acid, which these thefts seem to contribute to.

We here at Carryway have explored several ways to help prevent the theft of and damage to your golf buggies.

1. Avoid Leaving the Buggies Out in the Open

In a theft incident that occurred in March 2017 in Norfolk, batteries were removed from 4 buggies during the early morning hours.

Leaving buggies out in the open during off-hours increases the risk of theft substantially. Do not leave buggies unguarded, especially on golf courses.

2. Use a Designated Storage Area for Buggy and Battery Storage

Assign an appropriate storage space for the vehicles and their batteries. This is the best way to prevent thefts. The storage area must offer a high-level of security, both physical and electronic.

Choose a storage area using solid structures or other materials that provide impressive physical resistance against theft. Alternatively, you could also use shipping containers for storage.

3. Set Up a Buggy Monitoring System

In October 2017, buggies worth £7000 were stolen in two separate incidents that occurred over a span of six days in Sleaford. It was found that the thieves had escaped all CCTV cameras installed on the premises.

Have an effective monitoring system that allows you to remotely monitor your vehicles. Invest in systems that identify breach not only through doors but also through vibrations on any perimeter wall.

4. Make Changes on the Course

Shorten the distance between the player and the buggy on the course, for instance, if there is a path specifically designated for buggies to drive along. Ensure that the greenery is thinner at spots where buggies stop frequently. This helps prevent thieves from hiding behind thick bushes while they wait for the right opportunity.

5. Secure Ignition Keys

Remove ignition keys when the buggy is not in use. Have employees and customers follow this as a strict rule. Keys should be stored in a safe area, preferably in a locker. The keys to this safe should not be on the premises after business hours.

6. Use Speed Limiters, GPS Trackers and Battery Diagnostics

These features have been known to reduce the risk of thefts on golf courses. A speed limiter limits the speed of the buggies to a slow pace while GPS trackers provide real-time monitoring. Battery diagnostics provide information about battery condition, usage and service issues.

7. Increase Awareness about Thefts

Let all members and employees know that buggy and battery thefts are on the rise so that they can be more observant of their surroundings when the buggies are in use. Place display notices in the club and include information in your newsletters to spread awareness.

Golf Buggies for Sale

At Carryway we are experts in golf buggy fleet solutions for clubs large and small. We work with over 160 UK golf clubs to provide reliable electric and petrol buggy solutions to meet their needs.

To discuss your requirements or to learn more about how we can help, reach out via phone or email today. Our dedicated customer services team will be happy to help answer any questions you may have:

Tel: 0800 953 0503

Email: info@carryway.co.uk