Not only the inside of your home, but even your yard, garage, or shed can be targets for thieves. We often leave lawnmowers, bicycles, furniture, or other expensive items in our garden. They can become easy targets for thieves. Therefore, securing the outside of your home is just as important as securing the inside. Here, we will share simple yet effective measures so you can leave your home without worry and sleep peacefully. By following these steps, you will find that your home and surroundings are much safer from thieves.
Don’t Leave Valuable Things Outdoors
Thieves can target your outdoor items first. Therefore, it is important not to leave valuable tools and equipment outdoors. For example, if you own a lawnmower, power drill, gas cylinder, furniture, children’s play items, or an expensive bicycle, keep them in a closed room or a locked shed after work. Anything left unattended invites thieves.
Tip: Garden furniture, gazebos, or balcony chairs can also be expensive. When not in use, store them in a locked area or hide them under covers. This will prevent thieves from getting hold of them.
Create a secure place for Outdoor Items
If you frequently leave expensive tools or equipment outside, keep them locked in a locked room or garage. Set up a secure storage shed or lockable cupboard. Be sure to place the shed in plain sight of the house, not hidden behind trees or tall bushes. If the shed is visible from the house, any suspicious activity will be more easily detected.
Also, install strong locks on the shed or garage. Traditional deadbolts or solid padlocks are good options. Security can also be increased by adding heavy-duty sheets to the lock (such as security screws). You can also install a smart lock or keyless locking system, which will prevent anyone from entering without permission.
If you have bulk items, collect them and keep them in a secure area. For example, consider having separate lockable boxes for outdoor toys, garden machinery, or other unused items. By creating such a closed space, you will significantly reduce the likelihood of an unwanted incident.
Install Strong Locks and Locking Systems
Ensure strong locks are installed on all your outside gates, gates, and shed doors. Whenever you leave items outside, ensure the area is securely locked. Heavy metal locks or deadbolt locks are reliable. Remember, thieves often flee when they see weak or open padlocks. So always choose high-quality locks and be sure to close them completely after use.
Don’t overlook large garage gates either. Garage doors are slow to close, so consider self-locking or additional locks. Don’t leave the locks loose on sliding gates or fenced doors either. Research shows that thieves can easily break or break even ordinary locks, so consider a strong locking system.
Fencing
Fencing your yard or garden is the first line of defense. Install high iron or steel fences that are difficult to climb or cut. If you have a large yard, consider installing mesh gates on the driveway. Be sure to lock all gates to these fences. Regularly check for loose wires or wood.
Remember that simply erecting a fence isn’t enough. Thieves can use sophisticated methods to cut or climb over fences. Therefore, install alarms, motion sensors, or security cameras along the fence. For example, install barbed wire or motion-sensing sprinklers. This will prevent thieves from easily climbing over.
Install Security Equipment
Security equipment strengthens your defenses. Here are some essential ones:
- Motion-activated spotlights: These will illuminate your outdoor area at night, preventing thieves from taking advantage of the darkness.
- Outdoor security cameras: Installing cameras can deter thieves and also provide recordings if a theft occurs.
- Prune vegetation: Dense vegetation can provide hiding places for thieves. Trim these regularly to eliminate any suspicious hiding places.
- Exterior lighting: Always keep backyard or garden lights on; darkness attracts thieves. Lighted backyards at night make it difficult for thieves to easily steal.
- Alarms and sensors: These devices instantly detect unwanted activity and alert you with a loud alarm. Research shows that 60% of thieves run away upon hearing the alarm.
Adequate Lighting
Place bright, motion-sensitive lights to illuminate entry points like gates, sheds, gardens, and pathways can provide you clear view of your outdoor. Thefts also feel fear in the lighting because outdoor lighting deters theft by removing hiding spots, and they feel exposed. So always keep the outdoor light on at night.
By adopting these measures, you will find that your outdoor area will become much safer. If you still notice any suspicious activity, immediately inform your local police. Maintain good relations with neighbors so they can also keep an eye out for any unexpected events.
By combining all these security measures, you can strengthen the security outside your home. Always keep your belongings locked, install strong locks, a fence, lighting, and equip security devices. This way, you can keep thieves away and rest assured that your outdoor area is completely safe.
