The Locksmith Journal 87 July 2023 | Page 40

OUTDOOR SECURITY & PADLOCKS

Guarding the garden with outdoor security updates

» SUMMER CALLS FOR WEEKENDS IN the garden and enjoying the great outdoors with family and friends . But , unfortunately , at this time of year , the garden is also a prime focus for burglars , with plenty of hiding spots and typically weaker security measures making it an easy target for an opportunistic break-in .
The risk of burglary can also be heightened at this time of year by homeowner ’ s lax approach to their home security . One misconception is that homes are more at risk of burglary at night , with the winter months offering prime conditions for opportunists . But , according to Aviva , 48 % more burglaries take place between July and September 1 , with homes being left vacant for the holidays .
So , with the summer holiday season in full swing and the risk to homeowners increasing , Matt Claydon , Head of Trade at Yale UK , shares his advice on the key updates that trade professionals should be suggesting to their customers to ensure optimal outdoor security .
The garden
When recommending a garden security update to customers , it ’ s best to start with the basics . Whilst a sturdy fence with no broken panels is a great first step in securing a garden , it ’ s worthwhile suggesting heightened protection to customers with the help of padlocks .
A relatively cost-effective security solution to the customer , the addition of a maximum-security padlock to any side
gates or outbuildings , such as a garden shed , can be an effective deterrent to criminals .
Stocking up on a range of padlock types , from a trusted brand such as Yale , will allow you to provide solutions that are weatherproof , with an anti-drill cylinder and anti-cut shackle , and carry a high CEN standard rating to ensure heightened security for the home and garden .
The shed
According to recent figures , the average shed in the UK houses £ 2,234 worth of valuables 2 - everything from garden furniture to expensive power tools . And although there ’ s thousands of pounds worth of products stored inside , sheds are notoriously lacking in even the simplest of security protection .
Whilst recommending a maximumsecurity padlock is a great first step , trade professionals can also recommend their customer ’ s install further security measures . These include a maximumsecurity chain to fix down valuable equipment and gardening tools , which are often a prime target for opportunists , as well as a handy Shed & Garage Alarm .
Yale ’ s Shed & Garage Alarm is wireless , with a 12 metre detection range , motion detection alerts and a 100dB siren to warn off
any potential criminals – perfect to stock up and sell on to protect outbuildings this summer .
Side and back doors
According to statistics shared by the MLA , lock snapping still accounts for 25 % of burglaries 3 . So it ’ s worthwhile also recommending a lock upgrade for back or side doors at this time of year .
It ’ s not surprising these doors don ’ t often have the same level of protection as the front door . And with back or side doors typically being in low footfall areas or hidden from public view , it ’ s worthwhile recommending a high security cylinder upgrade to your customers .
Yale ’ s Platinum 3 Star Cylinder is a great option , offering protection against a range of burglary attack methods , alongside approval to the TS007 standard .
Alternatively , a smart lock , such as the Keyless Connected from Yale , is the perfect upgrade for design conscious homeowners looking for security and style . Smart locks have been designed to allow for the ultimate convenience , but also heightened security with banklevel encryption , time-controlled user codes and a tamper alarm . By suggesting a smart lock to your customers for any side doors , you can offer them easy and convenient access for trusted family and
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JULY 2023
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