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Halifax Home Insurance has warned homeowners to be cautious about the security of their gardens this summer, when thefts are more likely to take place. Last year, garden theft rose by 52% in the summer compared with statistics from the winter. In addition, the Halifax also states that the average claim for garden theft has risen by 25% over the past five years.

Two independent crime prevention initiatives – one at Greenock, Inverclyde, the other at Jarrow, Tyneside, emphasise the increase in garden crime and the vulnerability of most sheds and outbuildings. The rise in the number of shed break-ins over recent weeks in both areas (14 in Jarrow alone!) has led to the theft of power tools, bikes and garden furniture. The local police forces have issued security guidelines and warnings to local residents.
This is fast becoming a national crime issue, but can easily be avoided.
Check out the Prevention – Sheds & Outbuildings pages on this site now!

• There is a huge immediate demand for metals, such as copper, brass, lead and iron by the emerging industrial giants such as China and India.
• Consequently, the value of these metals has rocketed in recent months.
• The Association of Chief Police Officers and several major Insurance Companies have issued warnings that the theft of all metals – for scrap! - is becoming a major crime issue.
• Our gardens are easy targets and provide rich pickings.
• We are receiving an increasing number of theft alerts reporting the theft of cast iron urns, benches, garden rollers, gates etc.
• We strongly recommend that you take protective action as outlined in our Prevention pages.
• Finally, we would caution against complacency. Do not automatically assume that 'workers' wearing official-looking 'uniforms' are operating legally.

Be vigilant. If you see a crime being committed or anything suspicious, contact the police immediately. In addition, if you have any information or intelligence which could assist the police in preventing or detecting this type of crime contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Gardien are currently looking to implement a variation on the latest Anti-Terrorism technology in an effort to reduce Garden Crime. It is intended that the application of high-tech cameras and sophisticated CCTV software will not only provide effective Garden Intruder Protection, but will also give warning of attempted Object Removal. Watch this space!!