Leicestershire's advice to schools is to provide good physical security to the premises, clearly mark all valuables, and protect vulnerable areas by intruder alarms. However, Leicestershire Constabulary are now recommending the use of SmartWater as an extra deterrent.

Smart Water has been described as one of the most innovative weapons in the arsenal of crime prevention. Criminals have the greatest fear and respect for forensic science. In the early 1990’s, Smart Water researchers established that there were over 140 different types of property marking systems for the police to be aware of, resulting in confusion and disillusionment. The only people benefiting were the criminals. Modelled upon, but more robust than, DNA profiling, Smart Water’s forensic profiling is used to mark property or people. Smart Water Instant is simply brushed on and glows under UV light, enabling the police to locate it easily.

Unlike other UV ‘markers’ each brush stroke contains a unique forensic fingerprint encoded with the owner’s details. Tiny particles when viewed through a hand held microscope provide the police with a unique ‘PIN’ number. By calling a 24-hour National Database and quoting the PIN they are able to identify the true owner of the property. The warning labels provided also act as a deterrent when fixed to the item and external windows and doors.

Smart Water is sold on a licensed basis but Leicestershire Constabulary have been testing the product with much success. One of the beneficiaries has been Rawlins Community College in Quorn. For Adam Powell, the IT manager their confidence is reflected in the fact that they are now considering using their third bottle. The college has seen desktop computers, laptops, projectors, mobile phones and digital scales all marked with Smart Water. The College had been considering its use, but when the Constabulary approached them in 2003 to trial the product on a complimentary basis they seized the opportunity.

A more advanced application is Smart Water Index. The Index Solutions System, when triggered, sprays the intruder with Smart Water. The solution is harmless and virtually undetectable in normal light, but is extremely difficult to remove from skin, clothing and footwear. It glows under UV light and when detected, samples are taken from the suspect for forensic examination, providing undeniable evidence linking the suspect directly with the scene of the crime.

SmartWater Technology Ltd.

Tel. 01952 222706

Website: www.smartwater.com

Page Last Updated: 7 October 2004