Spring into action against outdoor thefts

As the weather begins to warm up, we start to spend more time enjoying the great outdoors, with garden furniture, tools and sports equipment being taken out from sheds and garages where it has been stored over the colder months. However, UK homeowners need to consider how these items are protected as a survey has revealed that everyday 15 people have something stolen from their garden, with 30 gardens a day having something in them lost or damaged. What’s more, with items in a typical garden including furniture, barbecues, lawnmowers, plants and shrubs, the value of a garden theft can amount to a staggering £1,169. Stephen Roberts, marketing manager for Yale, said: “Criminals have cottoned on to the fact that people tend to store expensive tools and equipment, which can be worth several hundred pounds, in a shed or garage that isn’t securely locked. “Most sheds are supplied with minimal or no door security, so at this time of year when there is a rise in outdoor burglaries, we strongly recommended considering simple security solutions that can deter any would-be thieves.” So what security measures do you need to help prevent garden thefts this spring? The security experts at Yale have put together their top tips so you can focus on enjoying the nicer weather. Beat the burglar It’s worth fitting a heavy-duty padlock that can withstand all weathers. Maximum strength padlocks (rating 7-10) are highly recommended as they can withstand the great British weather, even in exposed locations such as homes by the sea. And don’t forget to secure what’s inside the shed or outbuilding as well. Anchors and cables can be used to loop through expensive items such as bike wheels or lawnmower handles to provide an extra level of protection if an intruder does manage to gain entry. Stay alert If you already have an alarm for your home, you could consider extending the existing system to your shed by adding PIR detectors that will alert you to any movement. However, if this is not an option, you could also buy a small standalone alarm to give you added peace of mind. Smart solutions Lastly, for the technology enthusiasts, why not install a Smart CCTV kit to catch any criminals on camera. Make sure it has infrared night vision so you can still see them under the cover of darkness. With the summer just round the corner now is the perfect time to invest in outdoor security solutions to help you enjoy the warmer weather with the peace of mind that your garden and shed are secure. For more information on the full range of Yale home security products, please visit www.yale.co.uk or call 01902 364606.