Police remind homeowners to lock up their sheds and outbuildings

With the onset of winter, mowers and other garden tools are being consigned to sheds and outbuildings. And Dyfed Powys Police are reminding people to consider the security of your sheds outbuildings and garage.

“It’s important that people not only look to improve the security of their sheds, but also any other outbuildings they have where thy store any kind of tools and equipment,” said PC Rob Chapman from the Community Safety Department. “And there are a few simple steps people can take to increase their security.”

• Cover any windows with a curtain etc to stop prying eyes.
• Lay gravel around the door area (hard to walk on quietly)
• If possible fit bars on the inside of windows.
• Consider using extra internal bolts that drop into the floor for Up & Over garage doors.
• If you have wooden doors, check that the hinges and fixings are secure.
• Fit a quality Padlock and Hasp, not a cheap one.
• Consider fitting a security light that has a built in sensor.
• Consider fitting a Garage / Shed alarm, no wires and can be fitted in about 5 minutes.
• Always lock your Garage and when possible keep the doors closed.
• Security mark all your property, Use engravers or Punches to mark YOUR POSTCODE AND SURNAME ETC.
• Use property marking pens on other types of property i.e. Bikes, Lawn Mowers, Strimmers, Hand Tools, Electrical Tools, Patio and Garden furniture etc.

You would be surprised at the things others will steal from you if you give them the opportunity.

“These precautions do not guarantee that you will not become a victim of crime but hopefully they will help,” said PC Chapman.

Leaflets highlighting these points are available free of charge from the Community Safety department at Ammanford police station which can be contacted on 101