Operation Gnome – Protecting your garden and allotment
As the first signs of spring are starting to appear in gardens and allotments across the county, Hertfordshire Constabulary is launching Operation Gnome, a new initiative to help remind residents to keep their gardens, outbuildings and allotments secure.
Spring is traditionally a time when burglars target sheds, garages and outbuildings, looking for power tools, bikes and other expensive items stored in them. They also look for tools left in gardens such as spades, garden forks and ladders, which can be used to help them break into homes.
These are some of the ways you can make your outbuildings more secure:
- 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)