HPD Crime Alert: Shed & garage break-ins

The Henderson Police Department wants to remind residents to secure their garages and utility buildings when left unattended.

The best deterrent to keep thieves from stealing your property is to properly secure these structures with adequate locking devices. Sheds and garages are often left open and unattended as we do yard work or other outdoor activities creating the opportunity for theft.

Take the time to reacquaint yourself with your old and new neighbors and use this as an opportunity to suggest a neighborhood watch. Let your neighbors and 911 know when a suspicious person has been spotted in your area. Neighbors working together for each other’s well-being is the foundation for a happy and safe community.

The goal is to create an environment that is uninviting to the criminal element.

Make sure to always lock garages, and utility buildings.

Make sure to use a steel lock. They might have plastic coated to protect from the weather, but it should be a strong lock, not a cheap one that can be pried open.

Make sure the locking hasp is made of a good quality material.

Make sure the hinges are secure. The hinge screws should be on the inside, not on the outside where the burglar can get at them.

Have proper lighting on your garages, and utility buildings. A motion detector that turns on a light on the shed or on your home facing the shed is always a good idea.

Consider installing a battery-operated alarm on your garages, and utility buildings.

Cut and trim shrubbery that may prohibit your field of view or that may provide concealment for thieves.