Longer daylight hours and warmer nights mean many people will be spending more time outside of their homes, making it more important than ever to step up on garden security.

There are some very basic steps to follow to make sure your home is extra safe –

1. If you have fencing surrounding your garden make sure these are in good condition, strong and secure in the ground.

2. If you have a front or side gate to your property always keep them shut where possible. In crime prevention jargon a shut gate creates a “defended space”. Ideally you would want to fit a secure lock, especially on side gates leading to the back of your property.

3. If you can, lay gravel on your driveway or paths around your property, this really is an effective way to deter a burglar as gravel creates noise – the last thing they want!

4. Plants – A Natural Line Of Defence!

Many garden plants can be used as great deterrents, not only will your garden look prettier but if you train branches along the tops of fences, walls and under windows, it will make things more difficult for anyone attempting to climb.

Most suitable plants to use –

· Pyracantha – Thorny branches and very useful on fences and walls.

· Common Hawthorn – Forms an impenetrable barrier.

· Berberis Gagnepanii – Small, dense and prickly evergreen. Suitable to create low hedges.

· Common Gorse – Viciously spiny, grows 4-5”.

· Rosa Fruhlings Gold Yellow – Old fashioned rose but these are densely prickly.

So why not get those gardening gloves on and protect your home!

If you feel you need extra security in your garden, maybe a garden gate, summer house, shed or garage door we will be able to help you. Please call us on 0800 035 045 1. We have locksmiths nationwide who are there 24 hours a day!