6 ways to protect your garden from thieves

This winter, the UK has had more than its fair share of sub-zero temperatures and unpredictable rain/snow showers. Whilst we can all wrap up warm with hats, scarves and gloves, and throw on a waterproof jacket before braving the elements, we dread to think what state the garden is in!

Despite spending more time at home – due to the pandemic – it’s easy to neglect our outdoor spaces. And, let’s face it, who wants to spend time sprucing the garden and fiddling around with padlocks with ice-numbed hands? But, the reality is, we need to keep on top of our gardens all year round to stop opportunistic thieves from getting their hands on our valuables.

To help, here are just a few things you can do this winter to secure your garden:

1. Keep your garden looking tidy

We know it’s tough in the colder months of the year, but cutting back overgrown trees or bushes and mowing the lawn will ensure that your green space looks beautiful and, more importantly, will remove any potential blind spots that thieves could hide in.

2. Create a barrier

Got a damaged fence panel? It’s probably not something that’s at the top of your priority list right now, but it should be. Criminals are quick to spot any weaknesses in your garden security – and your garden fence acts as a barrier to burglars, making it difficult for them to climb over. Other alternatives include building a wall or placing prickly rose bushes, thorn bushes or high (neatly trimmed) hedges around the perimeter.

3. Ramp up outdoor security

You must never become complacent when it comes to garden security. Things like motion sensors, CCTV cameras and video doorbells can all help to protect your property on the outside – preventing intruders from entering. But an even simpler way to enhance security is to add gravel or stone pathways. Why? Well, there’s a good chance that you’ll hear the crunching sound which will deter burglars!

4. Regularly check your shed

It’s no secret that sheds are exposed to the elements during the harsh winter months and they need a little extra TLC to ensure your belongings are protected. If you own a wooden shed, keep an eye out for rot and make sure that the locks aren’t rusty. If there are windows, check for loose hinges and consider adding bars if you store a lot of expensive pieces of equipment in it.

5. Store your tools safely

One of the most important things to remember is to keep any tools, toys and other accessories locked out of sight when they aren’t in use. This could either be in your secure garden shed or the garage (if there’s room!). Leaving them lying around just makes your garden more inviting for burglars. For example, they can use heavy tools to break windows and ladders to gain access to the rooms on the upper floors.

6. Use padlocks

You wouldn’t go to bed without locking the doors and checking the windows are shut, so why leave your shed door unlocked? Depending on where your shed is positioned, criminals might be able to access the shed – by simply pulling the door open – without you even realising. That’s why it makes sense to use padlocks to secure the door on the outside and to protect any valuables held inside the shed, either loose items or tools in a toolbox. Padlocks can also be used to secure garden gates or chains – and they don’t cost too much to buy. Just take a look at the extensive range LockShop Direct has to offer!