Yard ornaments are a prime target for thieves.
If you take pride in your yard, the last thing you want is a thief stealing your prized possessions. However, unless you take the proper precautions, your yard could be an easy target for potential thieves, who are more likely to get away with the theft than if they broke into your house. You can use several methods to deter or prevent others from stealing yard ornaments, lighting and tools.
Instructions
1. Use padlocks. Secure lighting, ornaments and signs with chains and padlocks. Attaching them to nearby trees, fences or even your house itself will prevent thieves from walking off with your possessions. This is also a good way of securing large gardening tools, such as ladders and lawnmowers.
2. Create concrete bases for ornaments. These will make the ornament so heavy that it will be difficult to steal. You can buy concrete mix ready-made from hardware stores. Simply pour the mixture into a small bucket and place the ornament on top of the concrete once it has partially set. You want the bottom of the ornament to become embedded in the mixture, without sinking. Wait for the concrete to completely solidify, then bury the base in your flower bed or lawn, leaving the ornament visible but a lot more secure. Alternatively, secure small ornaments and statues to concrete plinths with a strong outdoor adhesive.
3. Use Beware of the Dog signs. While these will not necessarily stop people from stealing your yard ornaments, the idea that there could be an intimidating guard dog hiding behind your gate will act as a deterrent. CCTV signs will also have the same effect, as people are less likely to trespass on your property if they think they might be caught on camera.
4. Install intruder lighting. This type of lighting stays dark until someone walks past a sensor, at which point the lights turn on. Installing a sensor at the entrance to your yard will activate the lights whenever anyone comes in. Yard thieves are less likely to strike if they think you might be able to see them, and intruder lighting might also help you feel safer when coming home after dark.
5. Create a barrier. A fence or row of bushes separating your yard from the neighbors' houses might prevent people from viewing the contents of your yard and having easy access to your ornaments. If potential thieves cannot see what is in your garden, they are less likely to risk entering it.
