Gardeners are advised to take a picture of their garden before going on holiday and to enhance their security measures so that thieves do not swipe valuable garden furniture and other items.
Garden lighting specialist LightingLegends.com warns that gardens can be a goldmine for thieves, with August being the best month for garden theft.
Valuable items such as patio furniture and decorations can be easy pickings for garden thieves who can easily steal your valuables without entering your property.
Garden sheds that are not properly locked can also be an easy sign and are often full of valuable power tools.
Now, experts have shared seven tips that can significantly improve property security, and they won’t break the bank.
1. Check the fences
You need a sturdy fence to prevent thieves from breaking in. Choose a tall, solid fence made of strong and durable materials such as wood, metal or vinyl. Adding lattice or spikes to the top of the fence can further prevent thieves from climbing.
2. Use thorny plants
Planting thorny or prickly plants such as roses and hawthorn around the perimeter of your garden creates a natural barrier. These plants are difficult and painful to get through, which deters potential intruders. Dense, bushy plants can also act as effective barriers, such as holly and pyracantha (firethorn).
3. Secure the ports
It is vital to use high quality locks on all external gates. Padlocks, combination locks or key locks can improve security and ensure that the lock is resistant to cutting and tampering.
4. Garden lights
Place motion-activated security lights around your garden, especially near entrances such as gates, doors and walkways. Use other types of durable, waterproof garden lights to ensure your outdoor area is well lit, especially around sensitive areas such as garages and sheds.
If you intend to use them all year round, it is important to choose IP65 rated waterproof lights. This improves overall visibility and minimizes potential hiding places for intruders.
5. Commercial sprinklers
Business sprinklers can startle and deter intruders. They also have the added benefit of watering your garden. Install them in areas that intruders can access, such as near gates or fences.
6. Storage of tools
Store garden tools and equipment in a locked shed. Intruders can use tools to break into your home, so securing them will reduce this risk.
7. Label your property
Use kits to label valuable items such as garden furniture, tools and decorations with a unique tag. This could be a UV pen, etching tool or micro dot technique, so you should keep a record of the marked items, including photos and descriptions, which is why it is recommended that residents take photos of their furniture before going on holiday.
Jon Saeed, Managing Director of Lighting Legends, comments on this strategy: “Garden security doesn’t have to break the bank. Simple measures such as upgrading locks, installing business lights and using natural barriers such as thorny plants can make a big difference in the security of your property.
“Effective security means making your home less attractive in practical and affordable ways, and these cost-effective strategies not only deter intruders, but also provide peace of mind.”
