Secure Your Sheds

Following recent incidents Police in Newry are urging residents to be vigilant of  thefts from sheds.

E District Crime Prevention Officer Lisa Sherman, said: “We have noticed a number of thefts from sheds over the last few weeks.

“In one recent incident the shed of a house in Carnagat Park was broken into between Saturday, 8 November and Sunday, 9 November. A brushcutter and cultivator were taken.

“This is generally the time of year when we clear up our gardens and store away tools, equipment and garden furniture and ornaments and we want to help you make sure your garden is safe and your shed is secure.

“Try and protect vulnerable areas such as windows, fences, boundary walls and drainpipes and use well positioned external lighting to make your garden less inviting for thieves.

“Keep your shed in good condition. Fit a closed shackle padlock to the door. Fittings should be bolted through the door and any screws concealed. Fit meshes or grilles to the windows and invest in an alarm.

“Make sure that large items such as bicycles are chained together as it is much more difficult for a thief to carry away a lot of large items.

“Ladders should be locked to a secure fixture in the shed or garage so they cannot be used to access upstairs windows.

“If anyone has information in relation to the theft in Carnagat Park they can contact police in Newry on the 101 number, quoting ref: 704091114.