NATIONAL HOME SECURITY MONTH
CRIME PREVENTION TIPS FOR YOUR GARDEN
As part of National Home Security Month 2023 , we take a look at some simple steps that you can take to keep your garden safe and secure .
» THERE ARE MANY SIMPLE AND affordable crime prevention measures which can be incorporated into any front or rear garden to add an extra layer of security into a garden to deter opportunistic burglars .
The key security features , which make a garden safe , secure and sustainable include :
• Boundaries and access - the first line of defence against theft is to make sure property boundaries are secure , particularly to the rear , where people are often less watchful .
• Fences - fences need to be of solid construction . It is recommended that fences to the rear of your property are 1.8m , and to the front no higher than 1.2m . Low-growing thorny shrubs at the base of fences , windows and drainpipes , will also give added protection .
• Drives and pathways - gravel drives and paths make it impossible for an intruder to approach a property quietly .
• Gates - keep gates shut and locked whenever possible , especially those allowing access to the rear of the property . Fit two quality locks to a gate , top and bottom , and ensure hinges are securely fixed to gate posts so that the gate cannot be lifted off its hinges .
• Lighting - install security lighting operated by a daylight sensor . Position lighting so not to be a nuisance to neighbours or a distraction for road users .
• Mark your property - mark your valuable items using one the various property marking schemes or use a permanent marker to endorse it with your post code and house number or name .
• Plants , ornaments and containers - proprietary land anchors can be used to secure larger plants , garden furniture , containers and ornaments . Most are based on a permanent stake to which an item is chained or bolted .
• Sheds and outbuildings - look after your sheds and outbuilding , making sure that both the lock and the hinges are securely fitted . Don ’ t make a burglar ’ s job easier by leaving gardening tools lying around – these are often used to force entry into houses . Think about using a strong lockable box or cage within the shed in which you can securely store garden tools .
• Storage Units - Consider a specialist SBD approved steel storage unit . These can be used for bikes and garden equipment and come in a range of sizes .
• CCTV - gardens with expensive items may be best protected by installation of closed circuit television ( CCTV ). Domestic systems can be linked to your television or video to view your garden .
• Plants that fight back - clearly , another level of defence are the plants themselves . Thorny , spiky and prickly plants can deter even the most determined burglar and may be all the protection you need around your property . If you choose the right plants , they can look aesthetically pleasing too and add drama to your garden . Planted in groups or as focal points there ’ s a vast array of forms , textures , and sizes to choose from .
Gardens are a place to relax , unwind or spend time with loved ones . They can also be purposeful and help make your home more secure . With a few small changes to your garden you can help protect your home and reduce your chances of being a victim of crime .
The Secured by Design Crime Prevention & Security Advice hub has practical crime prevention advice to help people stay safe , alongside details of products that have been tested and certified to meet the exacting standards you would expect from the police . Each webpage also has situation specific downloadable prevention advice PDFs .
www . securedbydesign . com
42 OCTOBER 2023
locksmithjournal . co . uk