Saturday, 21 March 2009

Crime prevention advice on garage & shed burglaries from Tudor Ward SNT

By taking a few precautions you can greatly reduce your chances of becoming a victim of crime.

* Ensure the front of your home offers a good view so any intruder can be clearly seen - cut back any foliage that prevents surveillance opportunities.

* Gravel paths/driveways deter burglars as the noise they make will increase the risk of detection for a burglar.

* Prevent easy access to the rear of your home by installing a secure gate. To prevent the gate being stolen reverse the gate fixings or weld the hinges shut.

* The rear garden boundary should be a minimum of 1.8 meters high. Use of a trellis topping will add height. Prickly or thorny varieties such as climbing rose, pyracantha, berberis and holly create a natural defence.

* Install security lighting to the outside of your home, use motion sensitive security lights to cover approach routes.

* For sheds, use a strong closed shackle padlock , hasp and staples, secured using coach bolts with a backing plate for extra reinforcement.

* Opening windows should be secured using window locks. If windows are never opened then screw them permanently shut from the inside.

* To prevent a line of sight inside paint windows with white wash or install a cheap blind.

* Consider installing a shed alarm available at good DIY stores, inexpensive but effective.

* Lock away small hand tools in a secure cabinet or other storage unit in the shed/garage.

* Use a length of chain to run through handles of larger hand tools and equipment, secure using a padlock.

* Security mark all equipment by etching in your postcode and house number.

* Ensure any ladders are locked together, secured and out of sight.

* Remember to lock together any cycles inside your shed or garage making it impossible to just steal one.

* Take photos of valuable garden ornaments and statues.

* Costly garden furniture and ornaments can be anchored to the ground. Free standing containers can be cemented in place, bolted down or secured by running a chain through the drainage holes and locking to something solid. Alternatively fill the base with bricks to make a container to heavy to move.

* When going away ask a neighbour to watch over your home and garden - also let us know and we will also keep a casual eye on the property.

* Consider joining or starting a Neighbourhood watch scheme as they really do reduce the risk of crime.

If you require any further advice please feel free to give the team a call on 0208 721 2580.

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