Hounslow Police is giving out SmartWater kits across the borough so residents can safeguard their personal belongings.

It's part of the three-year MetTrace project which Metropolitan Police launched in 2015 aiming to reduce burglary across the capital.

SmartWater is a permanent liquid which leaves a unique trace on each item it is smeared onto in order for it to be returned to the owner, should it be stolen.

The liquid can only be seen under an ultraviolet light, which allows police to identify stolen items.

Hounslow Police says: "It leave a trace of the forensic fluid when being handled.

"It currently has a 100% conviction rate!"

The simple liquid also aims to deter thieves from selling on stolen goods, on their website, Met Police say: "This not only puts real pressure on burglars but also puts 'handlers' at risk too.

SmartWater can only be seen under UV light

"These are people who buy property knowing, or at least suspecting, it has been stolen.

"Put simply, property marked with SmartWater becomes too 'hot' for them to handle."

Inside each MetTrace pack, alongside the SmartWater kit, there will also be stickers which can be displayed on front doors or car windows to make thieves aware your property is marked, therefore making it less attractive to steal.

The liquid can be used to mark anything from phones to laptops, TVs, watches and jewellery, and is guaranteed to last for at least five years.

Once applied, police say it is almost impossible to remove.

How to get a kit

Hounslow Police is delivering kits to a number of homes across the borough - Met Police's aim is to visit one in seven homes across London to offer crime prevention advice and a free kit.

If you don't get a knock at your door, head to the Met Police website to find out how you can get your hands on one.

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