Garages

Garages usually contain valuable items and many have integral doors which could offer a thief easy, hidden access to your home.

‘Up and over’ garage doors are usually fitted with a central locking door handle which are often quite weak and can be easily attacked. We suggest fitting them with a hasp and staple and padlock.

If you have a household alarm fitted, consider extending the system to cover your garage. This should be a relatively cheap and effective way of protecting your garage. Having a ‘bell box’ fitted to your garage would also offer an additional deterrent.

It is good practice to fit British Standard approved locks to all your external doors and this includes integral garage doors. For further advice on suitable locks contact the Master Locksmiths Association on 01327 262255 or visit www.locksmiths.co.uk.

There are numerous approved security products available that will vastly improve the security of your garage door. Visit: www.soldsecure.com or www.securedbydesign.com, for more details or call <%=telephoneNumber%> and ask your local crime prevention officer for advice.

Gardens

Many people invest a lot of time and money in their gardens. Plants, shrubs, water features, solar lighting and garden furniture can be very expensive and are all very attractive to a thief.

Extra attention should be given to passageways located at the side or rear of your home. Strong lockable high gates will deter thieves attempting to gain access to your rear garden.

Fencing and walls can be given extra protection by fixing trellis on the top. This will collapse if someone tries to climb over it and the noise can be enough to alert your or your neighbours. Similarly, if you are planning to build a path in your garden or around your property consider using gravel. The noise made when this is walked on can alert householders to any approach.

Never leave spare keys hidden in your garden, garage or shed for children or family members. If hidden keys are found by an intruder and used to burgle your home you may find your home insurance is invalid.

Good lighting is an excellent way to deter intruders particularly by fitting exterior lights with dusk to dawn sensors. These are light sensitive and activate when it gets dark and turn themselves off when it gets light. Using low wattage bulbs provides a cheap and effective security measure for your garden.