There has been a recent increase in the number of thefts in comparison with previous years, in particular numerous sheds have been attacked at the same site.
The offenders are targeting sheds which are both secured and insecure. The sheds are being attacked throughout the night, and at weekends. The offenders have stolen items including gardening equipment and tools
Crime Prevention generic advice would be to;
Encouragement to replace or repair sheds easily broken into.
Encouragement to keep sheds locked with high quality locks in more than one place.
To take valuable tools/equipment home if not required on a regular basis.
To conceal items within sheds in cupboards, chain items together especially trolleys or wheelbarrows that could be used to remove smaller items back to a vehicle.
Do not leave such items outside of secured sheds.
Mark items Overt marking systems i.e. CRE-MARK showing house number/name and use of Smartwater for machinery and other valuable items, together with appropriate.
Smart Water signage to the perimeter of the sites to re-enforce the message that property has been forensically marked.
Allotment owners/Reps to make sure that all allotment plots are being utilised to maximise the owner presence on the site.
Later night use of the allotments throughout summer if possible, spacing out use among plot holders throughout day to maintain presence.
Ensure that each allotment holder secures the main entrance gates when they go home.
If possible someone could be given the responsibility of checking that gates are locked, main entrance is secure.Secure gate lock to be used.
Put up signage to state allotments are private for owners use only and if there are public footpaths close by make sure signage is adequate so people walk along footpath without coming onto site.
Make sure perimeter is secure-repair any gaps.
Consider anti climb measures with appropriate signage if applicable.
