Security advice for outbuildings after a number of attempted break-ins in the Tulloch area of Perth

Police Scotland is urging residents in the Tulloch area of Perth to be on their guard and think about security of their sheds, garages and outbuildings.

This follows a number of attempted break-ins over the past week.

Residents should take the security of their sheds, garages and other outbuildings as seriously as they do with their house. After all, it is not uncommon for people to store hundreds, if not thousands, of pounds worth of equipment and belongings out with the family home.

Tools and ladders and even garden furniture should be put securely away and never left out for thieves to steal, or to use to commit crime.

Householders should follow the following advice –

• If possible, make sure you can see the shed, or outbuilding from the house
• For visibility at night, consider sensor-operated lighting which is convenient and an effective deterrent
• Make it more difficult for criminals to simply unscrew locks or hinges of shed doors by fitting carriage bolts or clutch head security screws. Another method of stopping screws being removed is to fill the heads with epoxy resin.
• If you shed has windows, consider fitting a curtain, or similar, to obscure the view of the building’s contents
• Security mark all equipment with your postcode to increase the likelihood of it being returned if stolen and then subsequently recovered. Marking should be obvious, where possible, although an ultra violet pen can be used for more discreet marking.
• A steel cable threaded through removable property and secured to the building can make it extremely difficult for the thief to steal.
• Consider an intruder alarm for your shed, garage or outbuilding
• Never leave your shed, garage or outbuilding unlocked

Importantly, please be a good neighbour, particularly towards older or vulnerable residents. Ask them if they require any assistance to make their homes safer and keep an eye out for them, as well as anyone coming to their door.

Anyone who sees any suspicious activity in their community, or who has any information that could assist the Police Scotland should call 101, or speak to their local officer.

Information can also be provided anonymously via the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Anyone who sees a crime in progress should call 999 immediately.