A garden shed

Safety in numbers

Adequate insurance is one of life’s necessary safeguards but it’s wise to take care as well. We’ve got some advice for safe summer fun

We like to make the most of the warmer weather – so do thieves and burglars. Theft claims rise 10% during the summer, while garden theft usually increases with thieves targeting tools and equipment from your shed, garden furniture, ornaments – even plants. Some will actually use your tools to try and get into your house, taking your belongings with them when they leave. Properties left empty while owners go on holiday also provide an attractive opportunity for burglars. So what can you do to prevent thieves from taking you possessions while the suns out?

Lock away gardening equipment and tools when you’re not using them

And use solid locks, that can’t easily be broken, on your shed or garden. If you can, get a lock for your garden gate so that thieves can’t get into your garden without climbing over. You can also put light trellis on top of your walls and fences to make climbing into your garden more difficult. If you have any trees or shrubs near your shed, cut them back so thieves can’t hide behind them.

Lock windows and doors.

Although theft claims rise in the summer, there is less building damage during burglaries which appears to indicate that thieves are more opportunistic at this time of year, sneaking in through open widows or doors. With this in mind, it’s wise to be wary of leaving doors and windows open unless you’re close by.

Ask your neighbor to check on your property

If you’re off on your summer holiday, consider asking your neighbor to look in regularly and pick up your mail. Cancel any other deliveries while you’re away. A car parked in the driveway can also give the impression that someone is home: if your taking yours away with you, ask a neighbor if they’d mind using your driveway while you’re away. They might be glad of the extra parking space.

Use nature as a defense

Prickly hedges and dense bushes can help to deter any potential intruders so consider growing plants with thorny stems to secure your garden.

If you’re worried about ensuring you have the right home and contents insurance for your home, head to our insurance pages to see what we cover and send us an enquiry form or give us a call, our experienced insurance team are on hand to help.

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