Three sheds have recently been broken into and items stolen on the Elson Allotment site in Gosport. If you have an allotment in Gosport, please bear in mind the following security measures to help protect your property and deter potential thieves. Please also report any suspicious activity to 101 (non-emergency) or 999 (emergency).
- Set up an Allotment Association if you don’t belong to one.
- Perimeter fencing at your site needs to be up to two metres in height. If you increase the height above two metres you are advised to seek advice via your local planning authority. Repair any holes or opportunities to crawl underneath. Overhanging tree limbs which aid climbing should be removed too.
- If possible, when considering new fencing, avoid chain link which is inherently weak. Weld mesh is preferable.
- Whilst hedgerows are a good deterrent (especially thorn bearing varieties), keep height around the entrance to the site at waist height to aid visibility.
- Consider the positions of stores and sheds. Can a thief breaking in be seen from neighbouring properties or by passing cars and pedestrians?
- Shed alarms or a wireless alarm can be a useful deterrent. However, this is only recommended if it is audible by neighbouring properties or passing pedestrians.
- Site’s stores made from metal are recommended which may be more robust than wood. Reclaimed cargo containers are a consideration.
- The padlock should have a closed shackle and the locking mechanism should be shrouded to prevent cutting or leverage.
- Display weatherproof signage warning criminals that property on the site is marked and traceable. Undertake a "Property Marking Weekend" for your members. Mark all your property with a UV marker pen, indelible ink, and engraving or DNA forensic marker product.
- Ensure your Property serial numbers are registered on a secure national property register with www.immobilise.com.
- Periodically change the gate lock.