When thinking about home security, many people focus on the house, but ensuring your outdoor area is well-protected is crucial for a secure home. We easily forget what value our outdoor space holds, including our front and back gardens and any further land.
All outdoor structures (including sheds and garages) are prime targets for theft due to their typically less secure nature and valuable contents such as tools, bikes, and garden equipment.
In this blog, we’ll explore practical tips for DIY security enhancements and how Herts Security Systems can also offer professional solutions for safeguarding your outdoor spaces.
Our Top DIY Tips
1. Strengthen any suitable entry points
- Upgrade Locks: Upgrading standard locks with heavy-duty padlocks or deadbolts can make a difference. Ensure that door frames are sturdy and capable of withstanding forced entry, if not consider reinforcing your door with some timber frames.
- Install Security Bars: Fit metal security bars on windows to prevent break-ins - these can be a great deterrent despite their aesthetic and they still allow for light and ventilation.
- Enhanced Hinges: Use long screws to secure door hinges or add hinge bolts to prevent doors from being pried open.
2. Improved Lighting
Effective lighting is a simple yet powerful deterrent against theft. Consider installing motion sensor lights or solar powered lights to your outbuilding. Any motion activated lights will potentially startle any intruders and alert you of their presence. Solar powered lights are a great alternative for the environment, especially where electrical wiring may not be possible.
3. Hide Valuables
Whilst it may seem obvious, this is a key factor. By making it difficult for thieves to spot valuable items, we decrease the chances of burglars attempting to break in for something they previously window-shopped for.
- Storage Solutions: Use lockable storage cabinets and heavy-duty shelving to organise tools and equipment - these can be easily picked up online or in your local DIY shop.
- Cover Windows: Apply frosted film or curtains to windows, to obscure the view of valuables inside the outbuilding.
Our Free Tips for Enhancing Outdoor Security
1. Secure the Perimeter
A secure perimeter is your first line of defense and this is something we truly believe in here at Herts Security Systems.
- Fencing: Ensure the gates and fences around your property are of decent height and ensure they are in good repair.
- Gravel Paths: The noise of footsteps on gravel can alert you to an intruder’s presence, and let you know if cars or people are approaching.
- Hedges: Use nature to your advantage by moving or planting hedges that would be off-putting for a potential intruder.
2. Keep the area tidy
- Remove Clutter: Clear away any debris or objects, such as bins and ladders that could be used to hop over a fence or hide behind.
3. Get to Know Your Neighbours
Did you know building a strong community and being an active part in your neighbourhood can enhance security?
- Neighbourhood Watch: Join or start a neighbourhood watch program. Neighbours looking out for each other can deter criminal activity. There may already be one set up where you live but it is worth researching your area to see what is already out there!
Check out https://www.owl.co.uk/ for more information.
- Communication: Share contact information with trusted neighbours and inform them when you’ll be away so they can keep an eye on your property. Setting up a group WhatsApp is also a great way to notify neighbours of any suspicious activity.
How Herts Security Systems Can Help
While DIY measures are beneficial, professional security solutions provide the highest level of protection. We offer a range of services tailored to securing garages, sheds, and outbuildings.
1. Detailed Security Assessments
We conduct thorough security assessments to identify vulnerabilities in your outdoor structures and overall property. We can evaluate entry points, lighting, and existing security measures, providing a customised plan to address any weaknesses. No security assessments are the same due to the different level of security required for each property.
2. Advanced CCTV Installation
CCTV cameras are a powerful deterrent and monitoring tool. Herts Security Systems can install high-definition cameras with features such as night vision, remote access and motion detection which you may not find on an “off the shelf” home security camera.
3. Integrated Alarm Systems
Herts Security Systems offers sophisticated alarm systems that can be integrated with your CCTV and other security measures. Smart alarms and 24/7 monitoring is a professional way to ensure that any alarm triggered are responded to in record time whilst receiving instant alerts and remote alarm system access.
4. Professional Installation and Maintenance
Proper installation is key to the effectiveness of any security system. We ensure that all security components are installed correctly and function seamlessly - this includes utilising the most suitable positioning for CCTV! As we also offer maintenance services, we can ensure that our clients security system remain in top condition, whilst providing ongoing support and peace of mind.
Securing garages, sheds, and outbuildings is essential for home security, despite being easily forgotten about. While DIY tips like reinforcing entry points, improving lighting, and organising valuables can significantly enhance security, professional services offer unmatched protection and prevention. Our expertise in assessments, advanced CCTV installations, integrated alarm systems, and professional maintenance ensures your outdoor structures are as secure as your home.
Investing in professional security solutions provides long-term peace of mind and safeguards what truly matters to you.