Dark nights in the Northern hemisphere herald the increase in accidents, thefts and garden damage.
Winter garden safety can be easily improved by taking a few moments to check around your yard or open spaces identifying hazards and making safe.
Lighting
Lighting open spaces around your property can both deter thieves and make it safe for you to walk around in the dark.
Solar self contained lighting has come a long way and is ideal for many locations that offer at least 8 hours of daylight per day.
Sadly in many cases, mains grid connected lighting has to be the solution in areas where daylight hours are fewer. However, this does allow for a wider range of options. From bollard lights to highlight paths, flood lights for wide areas and coloured LEDs for accents and features.
Please consult a qualified electrician before undertaking any external electrical works to ensure rule compliance and safety considerations.
A mixture of constant dusk to dawn lighting and lights triggered by movement can be suitable many gardens. Please think however of your neighbours and position lighting so it does not become an annoyance to them.
Too much lighting at night can also confuse wildlife, especially animals who hibernate for the winter.
Trips and slips
Now that you can see around your paths and open spaces it is worth checking that trip hazards and slippy paths have been attended to.
Removing moss and algae from steps and paths using a jet washer or stiff yard brush is well worth the effort.
Gathering fallen leaves is a great way to avoid hazardous paths.
Repair any paths where blocks or pavers have become misaligned or damaged.
Keep routes clear of snow and ice especially if they are used frequently such as to dustbins or the garage.
Tools and sheds
Ensure sheds and garden tools are well secured. Using a good lock and chain is well worth the expense.
Inspect any outbuildings on a regular basis and report to the authorities any criminal damage or suspected thefts.
Numerous marking systems are now available to physically identify tools and machinery. Your local crime prevention officers can advise.
We have even heard of higher value items such as ride on lawn mowers or bicycles being fitted with tracking devices such as Apple AirTags.
It is also worth securing any plants indoors that maybe damaged by frost or could be stolen.
Other items to consider when performing a garden security review should include furniture, sculptures and BBQ’s.
Fencing, brollies & pipes
Once all the major risks have been reviewed it is worth stepping to one corner of your garden or yard and just looking it over.
Take note and repair any broken or damaged fencing. This could become loose in storms or provide an easy access point.
Check over any trees for damaged or decayed branches. Consult professional tradespersons if in doubt of stability or risk from falling debris.
Protect any external taps or pipework using lagging foams or blankets. Consider draining pipework or small water features if possible.
Secure and possibly cover any garden furniture, sunscreens or patio items to avoid damage due to the cold or wind. It is often worth physically tying them down to avoid movement in strong winds.
Weather
Take note and update your garden security and safety on a regular basis especially if strong winds, heavy snow or high rainfall is forecast.
You may need to revisit some of your preparations and amend them.
Heavy snow may need removed from structures to avoid collapse due to the additional weight.
Keep an eye on plants and planters if long frosts are forecast. They may need additional protection to avoid damage.
Think also about wildlife. Birds and other animals can really be helped in the winter by easily available clean sources of food and drinking water. The RSPB have some useful information.
If you have any concerns or are unsure about what to do to make your garden or open space winter ready then consult a professional. Many local police areas have community safety officers who can assist with securing your garden and out buildings.
Local plumbers, electricians and trades persons will happily assist you in checking and making safe if requested.
Please use only accredited professionals. This time of year, sadly many people fall victim to scams or dodgy workmanship. If in doubt check with the appropriate authorities or governing bodies before letting anyone onto your property.
Photo Credit
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