How to secure your garden
We show you how to secure your garden to prevent would-be burglars from entering your home.
Step 1: Fencing
Erect a strong, tall fence around the perimeter of your garden to
keep opportunist burglars out. The Neighbourhood Watch Trust recommend
topping the fence with trellis. Its lightweight structure makes it very
difficult for someone to climb over.
Never top a wall or fence with barbed wire or broken bottles. Not only
is this harmful to cats and birds, but also makes it your
responsibility if anyone injures itself on it.
Step 2: Gates
Close off any side passage ways on your property with a tall and
sturdy gate. This should be lockable, preventing would be thieves from
slipping around to the back of your house where they can work unseen.
Step 3: Get Growing
Prickly hedges are a great deterrent. Plant them strategically
around your garden to block any unwanted entrance points. Make sure the
hedges don't obscure the view of the front door from the road, this
would give potential burglars the perfect cover to break in.
Step 4: Sheds
All sheds and other outbuilding should be solid enough to withstand
being kicked in, and be secured with a substantial lock. Other than
being stolen your expensive tools could be used to break into the house.
Step 5: Don't make it easy
Finally, remember most thieves are opportunists so remove
temptation from their way. Keep valuable items such as bikes and
expensive tools locked away.
Get Advice
Contact the Crime Prevention officer from your local police
station, they will be able to advise you on the security measures
specific to your property.
If there isn't already a Neighbourhood Watch scheme in your area
consider setting one up. Go to www.neighbourhoodwatch.net to get full instructions from the experts.