RESIDENTS in Malvern have been warned to be on their guard after a spate of thefts from sheds, garages and other outbuildings.
The advice has been given by officers from Malvern Police.
It follows three reports of garages and sheds being broken into in Astley, Clifton and Shrawley over the past few days.
The thefts took place overnight.
People are being urged to review their security to prevent becoming a victim of crime.
Police say it is important residents treat their shed and garage security in the same way they do their homes and should ‘think like a thief’ when looking at what they can do.
Sheds should have a good padlock on the door with no exposed screws.
Attention should be paid to hinges which are often vulnerable and can be easily removed.
Windows could also be an easy way in for thieves so should be secured with wire mesh or grills and kept locked at all times.
Residents should also consider a battery-operated shed alarm which, although look low key, respond to movement or door contact with an extremely loud siren.
Tools and other items should always be locked down and bikes secured with a lockable stand inside the building.
And police say it is worth draping an old sheet or blanket over the top of mowers or bikes to keep them covered from view.
Property marking items is advisable and some tools can be painted with people’s name or postcode. Forensic marking is also an option.
The top five most common items stolen from sheds include bikes, lawn mowers, sports equipment, garden tools and power tools.
Anyone with any information on garage or shed thefts should call police on 101
