Garden security advice from the Police
Advice on garden security
From an article published on the shedforce blog
As garden theft increases through the recession exactly What can you do to reduce the chance of you becoming a victim?
- Put away all tools and equipment and lock up.
- Remember these tools could be used to break into your home.
- Don't leave ladders outside, or chain them up if you have to.
- Replace standard hinges with strap hinges secured by coach bolts or use security screws on existing hinges.
- Use good quality locks to secure your gates and doors.
- A tough pad bar (also called hasp and staple) fitted with a strong padlock and secured with coach bolts is the most effective way of securing a door.
- Some standard locks fitted to up-and-over garage doors are easily overcome. A padlock with a hasp and staple fitted on each side is very effective. Specialist locks for such doors are also available.
- Double garage doors with a rim latch should be supplemented with a mortice deadlock.
- If the garage is attached to the main building ensure that connecting doors are secure.
- Install outside security lighting operated by either movement sensor or photo electric cell (Dusk till Dawn light).
- Check that your household insurance covers theft from your garden and outbuildings.
- Ensure your tools are secured in a good quality metal shed as they provide the best security.
- Mark your power tools etc with your postcode and house number or the first two letters of your house name. Alternatively, permanently mark them by scratching or painting: this will also reduce their value to the thief.
- Fit a battery operated alarm. These can cost less than you think.
- If budget permits invest in a metal shed as they offer the most security.
- Fit a window grille and / or frosted window film to stop a thief seeing into your shed or garage.
- Chain tools, cycles and other valuable equipment together using high security chain or cable and a good quality padlock.
- Photograph valuable and unusual garden ornaments and keep these in a secure place.
"from a report created by Notts Police force"