Shed & Garage Break-ins

Thames Valley Report Growing Problem

In the first two weeks of May 2013 Thames Valley Police have received 18 reported break-ins to sheds and garages in Haddenham, Stone, Bishopstone and Ashendon. These have been predominantly on Thursdays and Saturdays. Padlocks on sheds have been cut or garage doors forced open and electrical tools stolen.

We would ask that you are extra vigilant and take simple steps to ensure that your shed or garage is secure and tools inside are security marked. Please take a minute to read the following crime reduction tips:

• Have side gates fitted to prevent access to your garden and make sure the gate(s) are secure using a good quality lock/padlock. Keep all of your fencing secure — particularly if your garden backs on to an open space.
• Use hasp and staple padlocks to secure shed doors and windows and replace ordinary screws on outbuilding doors with non-return screws or coach bolts (the latter have smooth heads that cannot be undone with a screwdriver or spanner).
• Secure up-and-over garage doors with padlocks through the inside runners.
• Consider fitting a padlock alarm, which are available in hardware shops.
• Thorny shrubs growing under windows or against access routes such as drainpipes, walls and fences create an effective natural barrier. Berberis, blackthorn, rubus and pyracantha are all good for this and are readily available from your garden centre.
• Fix a grill to steel plates inside garage and shed windows.
• Keep your buildings in good condition. Burglars looking for an easy way in will target split, rotten or warped doors and window frames.
• Mark all your property with your postcode and house number or name. Make a note of serial numbers. This will help prove ownership if your property is stolen and then recovered.
• Please be vigilant in your neighbourhood and report any suspicious activity straight away to your local neighbourhood team on 101 or if you believe a crime is in progress call 999. If you would like to pass on information but wish to remain anonymous then call Crimestoppers on 0800 500 111.