As the weather improves and the nights grow shorter thieves tend to change their habits and make the most of the opportunities that we give them as we enjoy the nicer weather.

There are simple, cost effective ways of deterring this type of crime.

As you tidy up the front garden for the summer season consider trimming hedges back to allow some surveillance from neighbours and passers by.  This can help make thieves feel vulnerable as they approach your house.

As you buy new plants consider a regime of defensive planting around the boundary of your garden.  Plants with thorns can enhance your security while still providing colour and a habitat for garden wildlife.  The options are many, but some species could include, climbing roses, Berberis, Holly, and larger trees and shrubs such as Juniperus chinensis Obelisk or Multi-frond palm.

Use a cheap engraving tool to mark garden furniture with your post code and house number.  While you’re at it, disfigure garden tools with your post code and house number. As big and bold as you can.  Property so marked is difficult to sell on and if a thief can’t sell the goods on, they’re not worth stealing.

Hanging baskets can be secured to their brackets with plastic cable ties.

Finally. Most burglaries in houses reported to the police don’t involve any forced entry.  The thief has simply walked through an insecure door or open window.   If you’re enjoying the sunshine at the back of the house make sure the front windows and doors are closed and locked.  Likewise, if you’re settling down to watch TV in the front room in the evening, remember to close and lock the back door and windows.

Enjoy the nicer weather, but make sure your summer isn’t ruined by a thief taking advantage of any opportunities to commit a crime at your home.

Cheshire Constabulary Western Watch Office supports Home Watch Schemes across Chester, Ellesmere Port, Neston and Vale Royal, and is based in the Western Partnership Office, Northwich Police Station.  

 

Telephone 01606 364291