Thefts from sheds are of increasing concern to gardaí

Advice: check locks and lights of outbuildings

Sgt John Connolly, Crime Prevention Officer for Westmeath, this week expressed concern at the number of sheds being targeted, particularly in the last three months.

The items being taken from sheds include bicycles, ride-on lawnmowers, chainsaws and other easy to sell items.

Prevention is the key, said Sgt Conolly. “We need to look at security of our sheds. I know from our analysis that burglaries from houses have decreased but I would ask the public to check on the quality of doors and locks on sheds. Would they keep a criminal out for five minutes?

“Also, I note a number of the shed breaks-ins occurred in the early hours. Is there motion sensor lighting or any lighting in place?

“Is the lighting or sensor sufficiently high to deter interference with it? Would you consider extending your alarm to your shed?”

Sgt Connolly asks if the side of your house is secure (particularly relevant to housing estates), and advises putting unique identifying marks on your property (initials and date of birth), which assists with identification.

Photograph items of value too, he said.

“Unfortunately these items are being sold on at knock-down prices. I would remind the public that it is an offence to buy or have in your possession stolen property. Always looks for receipts of the equipment you are buying and get as much background as possible. Ask yourself why is the equipment being sold at such a bargain price.

“Gardaí have made a number of arrests in the recent weeks with the assistance of the public. Our patrols and check points are continuing in both rural and urban areas.”

Security advice is available at garda.ie, from local gardaí or by contacting Sgt John Connolly, 044 9384000 at Mullingar Garda Station.