Spring and summer crime prevention

The number of burglaries often increases during the spring and summer, when burglars tend to target gardens and allotments for valuable tools and equipment stored in outbuildings.

Always lock your shed, preferably with two 'hasp and staple' locks (one near the top and one near the bottom of the door) or use or an alarmed padlock.
Secure your rear garden by locking entry gates with a padlock.
Burglars can use garden tools to break in, so make sure you securely lock away any tools after use.
Ensure boundary fences are secure and in good condition. Spiky plants along garden boundaries are good additional deterrents.
Tools and gardening equipment should be visibly marked. with your postcode and house number - this can deter thieves and help police identify the rightful owner.
Remember to lock your garage door securely. Metal ‘up and over’ doors can be secured with extra locks fitted either side and/or a floor-mounted locking ‘T’ bar with a closed shackle padlock. Wooden garage doors can be secured with two substantial ‘hasps and staple’ locks and closed shackle padlocks (your local DIY store can advise on the most secure options).
Join Neighbourhood Watch or Allotment Watch to help reduce crime in your local area.
Make your home look occupied.
If you’re out or going away, ask a trusted neighbour to open and close your curtains for you and pick up mail so it’s not in view.
Ask a neighbour if they don’t mind parking their car on your driveway and trimming your garden to make your home look occupied.
Cut the front and back lawns before you go away and trim any plants that burglars could hide behind.
Cancel milk and newspaper deliveries.
Before your holiday, don’t advertise that you are going away on on social media, such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Make a habit out of checking that ground floor windows are closed and locked when you go to bed. Upstairs windows should be locked when the house is unoccupied.