Well spring has sprung and the migration into the garden has commenced with all the extra jobs that it brings. Unfortunately with the spring season also comes seasonal crimes too and we need give it a little consideration to prevent it and help others from becoming victims too.
New tools and lawn mowers: Be mindful of how you dispose of the packaging to your new purchases; don’t advertise it to the thieves and burglars with your empty boxes on display outside for roadside collection. Fold boxes inside out or break them up and put them in bag for collection.
Property marking: It’s a good deterrent if your property is visibly security marked with your house number and post code or labelled if a forensic property marking system is used such as www.smartwater.com or www.selectadna.co.uk. You can also record the serial numbers of any property free of charge at www.immobilise.com . If your property does get stolen with property marking and/or recording on Immobilise there is a greater chance of you getting it back.
Working in the garden: It is easy to get engrossed in what you are doing when working in the garden, if the house is empty it is wise to close and lock the door (don’t forget the key though!). Put tools away after use, “it add insult to injury” if your tools are used to break into your house.
Shed security: With sheds coach-bolt and plate the padlock hasp sections to the frame and door, use a good quality “Close Shackle” padlock or a key operated mortice lock; don’t forget the hinges ensure they cannot be unscrewed. Protect windows with a wire mesh and fit a curtain or white wash the windows to prevent prying eyes. Products that are fit for purpose can found by looking for the "Secured by Design" or "Sold Secure" logos, or on their websites www.securedbydesign.com or www.soldsecure.com .
New plants: Larger plants ect can be secured to land or rootball anchors or plant through chicken wire covering the area with soil. Cement or bolt down containers to the ground. Your local garden centre or DIY store should be able to help.
Rogue Traders: The rogue trader also takes advantage of the fine weather to con the unsuspecting. Although you may think you would never be taken in by them they can be very convincing especially to the elderly or vulnerable “I am laying some gravel up the road and see you need some……” “I notice your trees or shrubs need a prune…” so many stories. Look after the elderly or vulnerable near you and step in should you need to with a little advice, also another face sometime puts the rogue trader off. Need a trader and have no personal recommendations, look at www.buywithconfidence for traders checked out by Trading Standards.
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