Police warning after spate of shed and garage break-ins

Police are reminding Antrim residents to review their outbuilding security following a recent spate of shed and garage break-ins.
Editorial image.Editorial image.
Editorial image.

Inspector Colin Ash explains: “With the recent spell of good weather it is likely we are going to be using our sheds and garages more – grass needs cut, fences painted and bikes ridden.

“A shed, garage or outbuilding is often far easier to break into and less likely to be alarmed, yet many carry small but expensive DIY tools which are easier to make off with than a computer or television. The tips below should help reduce the chances of a burglar helping themselves to your property.”

Police advise the following:

• Fit strong padlocks and hardware to shed and garage doors.

• Make sure that the doors are solid enough not to be kicked in.

• Fit locks or bars to windows.

• Lock ladders inside your garage or shed.

• Consider lockable steel boxes or anchor posts fitted to the floor to secure tools and equipment.

• Garden tools and machinery should be permanently marked with your postcode.

• Install a battery or mains-powered shed alarm, available from all good DIY stores at a reasonable price.

• For extra security, replace the screws in external hinges of your shed or garage side-door with ‘clutch-head’ screws (also known as ‘anti-tamper’ or ‘coffin’ screws).

• Secure your wheelie bin to stop an intruder using it to climb on.

• Check that your insurance covers the contents of your shed or outbuildings from theft

• It is worth securing bicycles inside the shed to a ground anchor or lockable stand. Tools can be locked inside a locker or box or secured with a chain.

If you would like more information on protecting your home visit www.psni.police.uk or contact your local officer on the non-emergency number 101.