Monday, February 4, 2013

Police offer security advice after spate of garden thefts


Police in the Dronfield area are encouraging residents to keep gardens secure after a number of thefts during the past few weeks.

A total of 10 plant pots and plants have also been reported stolen since the start of January, from gardens on Hawkshead Avenue and Carr Lane, Dronfield Woodhouse and Gainsborough Road, Dronfield.

Local officers are appealing for information and reminding residents to make sure their gardens are secure, especially as the spring approaches.

PCSO Richard Lee of the Dronfield Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “We would ask residents to keep an eye out on their gardens and to avoid leaving valuable items in a place where they could be stolen by an opportunist thief.

“You can help to reduce the potential of having belongings stolen by keeping items in a back garden, which has secure access or if possible. We also encourage residents to be good neighbours and to report any suspicious vehicles or people in their street.”

General garden security advice includes:
When planting, put heavy stone in the bottom of pots or planters to make them more difficult to be moved.
If possible, anchor valuable garden ornaments or furniture to the ground and keep a photographic record to help officers to trace items back to their owner.
Security mark items in your shed and any valuable items that might be in your garden.
Make sure your shed is secure, that there are no panels which could be easily damaged and fit good quality locks and an alarm.
Consider securing items such as ladders, bikes or large power tools in your shed by chaining them to a strong anchor point.
Put all your tools and any children’s bikes or outdoor toys securely away once they are finished with.
Planting bushes with prickly leaves or thorns close to any entry points could deter a potential thief. A gravel pathway or driveway can also act as a good deterrent.
Consider installing outdoor motion-sensor security lights.
If you are away on holiday, ask your neighbours or a friend to keep an eye on your home and garden.
(Reproduced from The Postcode Gazette, 4th Feb)

(Gardien Comment: Further garden security advice and a range of high quality security products can be found at www.garden-security.co.uk )

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