Weeding out Crime

Many residents suffer from 'green-fingered' thieves pilfering their garden goodies. Whether it be plants, pots, ornaments or gnomes, some people will steal anything that is not nailed down. One way to protect your property is to consider the surroundings of your house.

Do you have a large fence that keeps your valuables in, but also can hide intruders in your yard?

Do you have trees close to your windows that may allow thieves to gain access by climbing?

Do you leave gardening equipment accessible for thieves to steal or use to break into your house?

Next time you are out in your garden consider the surroundings and think of alternative options that may deter would-be thieves. Utilise prickly plants such as bougainvillea on fences or beside easily accessible windows. Not only will this deter thieves, but provide brilliantly coloured flowers to brighten up your garden.

If possible, keep garden ornaments and your favourite hanging plants in the backyard for your own enjoyment rather than the enjoyment of theives.

Always put away garden tools after use, lock ladders and wheelie bins up so they cannot be used to access windows, install security lighting or lighting in your garden, engrave and photograph your gardening equipment and always keep your garage and tool sheds locked.

So next time you're out enjoying your garden, say hello to your neighbour and keep an eye out for suspicious activities on the street and in the yard!