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Garden Security

Break-ins to garden sheds and thefts from the garden are a problem throughout Scotland. Valuable equipment, such as lawnmowers, bicycles and golf clubs, are often stolen from sheds and outhouses because security is inadequate.

There are many simple, inexpensive security measures you can take which will help reduce the risk of theft from your garden.

• The boundary fence or wall to the rear of your home should be constructed in such a way that it is difficult to climb.
• The fence or wall to the front should be kept to waist height to avoid obscuring doors and windows. This discourages thieves because they cannot work without being seen.
• Fit a good quality hasp and padlock to the shed door. The hasp should be held in place with dome headed bolts to prevent tampering.
• Fit window grilles internally or use heavy wire mesh. Reinforced glass is a good alternative. If the window opens, a window lock should be used. Consider using curtains to stop the thief seeing what is inside the shed.
• Ensure that your garden furniture has been security postcoded. This can be done by marking with paint, engraving, scraping, or where appropriate, ultraviolet pen.
• Be mindful that garden furniture can be used by the thief as a climbing aid to gain entry to your home. Consider storing it in the shed, outhouse or garage when not in use.
• Ensure that all your gardening tools, including your lawnmower, have been security postcoded.
• Never leave tools or ladders lying around the garden. They can be used by a thief to break into your home.
• Linking garden tools with a chain and padlock when not in use will also reduce the changes of theft.
• A gravel path is a good crime prevention alternative to paving slabs or lock-blocks. If the gravel is laid fairly thickly it will crunch underfoot and act as a deterrent to the thief.

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