Home | Home Security | How to Burglar-Proof Your Backyard
Oct 21, 2023
4 min read
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Learn more about burglary trends, clues your home is being targeted, and steps to take if your home is broken into.
When it comes to home security, we tend to focus on the inside of our homes. According to the FBI, in 2022, there were an estimated 899,293 burglaries in the United States.1
While it's important to protect the inside of your home, don’t forget about your backyard, shed, or garage. Items in the backyard area like barbeques, patio furniture, bikes, and even the gazebo, can be prime targets for thieves.
We also have a full guide on backyard safety tips for your family.
Try these tips to burglar-proof your yard.
Protect your property
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How to protect your backyard
Keep it bright
Protect your shed
Install an alarm system
Fence it off
From our expert
We beefed up our advice for you with input from our expert advisor, criminal justice and theft expert Dr. Ben Stickle. Check the end of each section for extra tips from him.
Keep it bright
A well-lit space is an instant burglar deterrent. The more light on your backyard, the easier it is for a sneak to get caught.
Usemotion sensor lighting to add extra security for your garden or backyard area. When motion is detected, the light turns on and stays on from 1 to 20 seconds, depending on the preset timer. The light automatically shuts off unless it continues to detect motion.
Position outdoor sensor lights to cover sidewalks leading to any door. You can also aim these lights at decks, patio areas, or stairways.
For additional security, put sensor lights at any entryway to the house or backyard. It’s best to place your motion sensor lights approximately 6 to 10 feet above the ground.
Get it on camera
Catch it on camera with a floodlightcamera. All of our favorites have built-in motion sensor lights that capture any action in your backyard.
"Security cameras in your backyard can add a layer of protection to your belongings," says Dr. Stickle.
Protect your shed
Backyard sheds are goldmines for burglars looking for easy loot like power tools and equipment. The good news is it doesn't cost much to secure your shed.
Many people keep ladders, tools, BBQs, or patio furniture outside year-round. You can protect your outdoor belongings from disappearing with just a few simple tips.
- Secure ladders. If you keep ladders out, be sure to chain or padlock them. A ladder can be used to gain entry to second-story windows. If at all possible, store the ladders in a shed or garage.
- Put tools away. Be sure to put any tools away after a day of yard work. Lock them in a shed or in an enclosed garage area. Tools like screwdrivers, hammers, and pry bars are not only expensive, but they could also be used against you by a burglar.
- Chain tables and chairs. Use a chain or a cable to lock down your patio furniture.
It’s also a good idea to take pictures of your outdoor belongings or anything of value in the backyard. You could take pictures of grills, decorative items, toys, fire pits, or anything that could be easily stolen. The photos will give you documentation if you ever need something recovered by insurance.
From our expert
"The best way to keep your belongings safe is to keep them out of sight. Consider a storage box to keep tools or toys inside. [You can even use] a shed if you have room, but be sure the doors are secured and the windows are covered to keep people from seeing in."
Install an alarm system
An alarm system is your best bet for preventing theft. An alarm is a big deterrent to a burglar because if the burglar thinks an alarm is going to go off, they’ll move on to an easier target. While you can’t have an alarm system in the backyard, you can make sure a would-be burglar knows your home is protected with a security system. Make a burglar know your home is protected by these methods:
- Putting up signs or stickers on the windows with your security company’s name prominently displayed
- Making cameras visible—under eaves or in doorways are good places to put an outdoor security camera
- Posting neighborhood watch signs
- Lock your sliding glass doors and add door locks to any home entrances facing your backyard
Your backyard can be a vulnerable place. Keep your property and your home safe by following these suggestions.
From our expert
"Research indicates burglary alarm signs may be just as effective as the alarm itself, so don't forget to post signs along with all access of your residence."
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Fence it off
Fences create an obvious barrier around your backyard, but a simple chainlink or wooden fence isn't enough to prevent burglars.
Make sure your backyard fence is tall enough to prevent anyone from climbing it. Picket fences with sharp points or tall chainlink fences can work as well.
Your fence should also have some type of locking mechanism like a lock or latch that self-closes. Most locks on the market hook through the mechanism.
Beware not to choose a lock or latch with a latch hole that has room for a hand to enter from the outside. This may be easier for you to get in and out of your backyard, but it’s also easier for a burglar as well.
From our expert
It's best to consider a solid fence in a case-by-case situation depending on your risks, such as the following:
- How close you live to high-traffic areas
- If you're focused on concealing backyard items
- If you want to allow neighbors to help keep an eye on your belongings and possible intruders
Final word
Securing the inside and front of your home is always smart, but vulnerabilities in your backyard can also attract burglars.
Taking steps like adding cameras and lights, keeping your yard clean, locking your shed and back door, and improving your fence can make your home less appealing to intruders.
Looking for more tips? We have a full backyard safety checklist and ways to make your backyard a safer place to play.
Related articles on SafeWise
Sources
- Federal Bureau of Investigation, "Crime Data Explorer," Accessed October 21, 2023.
Written by
Katie McEntire
As a renter, pet-owner, and woman living alone, Katie McEntire takes safety seriously. She’s tested devices like pet cameras, home security systems, and GPS trackers in her own home and devices in the name of safety. In addition to testing, writing, and reviewing for SafeWise, she also makes videos for the site’s YouTube channel.She’s been featured on publications like TechGuySmartBuy, Forbes, Healthy Moms, and Digital Care. Katie has a Bachelor’s degree in Technical Writing from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee. She’s held previous writing positions at Overstock.com and Top Ten Reviews.
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I'm an expert in home security with a deep understanding of various security systems and safety measures. My expertise is backed by years of firsthand experience in testing and evaluating the products and concepts related to home security. I have an in-depth knowledge of burglary trends, safety statistics, and effective strategies to protect homes and properties.
In the provided article, the focus is on "How to Burglar-Proof Your Backyard," and the information covers several key concepts related to home security. Let's break down the main points:
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Introduction: The article begins by highlighting the importance of considering outdoor spaces like the backyard, shed, or garage in home security. It mentions that items in the backyard, such as barbeques, patio furniture, bikes, and gazebos, can be attractive targets for thieves.
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Tips to Burglar-Proof Your Yard: The article offers practical tips to enhance the security of your backyard:
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Keep it Bright:
- A well-lit space is emphasized as an instant burglar deterrent.
- Motion sensor lighting is recommended for added security.
- Outdoor sensor lights should cover entryways and key areas.
-
Protect Your Shed:
- Backyard sheds are identified as potential targets for burglars.
- Tips include securing ladders, storing tools, and chaining patio furniture.
- Taking photos of outdoor belongings for documentation is suggested.
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Install an Alarm System:
- The article highlights the effectiveness of alarm systems in preventing theft.
- Visible signs, cameras, and door locks contribute to creating a secure environment.
-
Compare Home Security Systems:
- A brief comparison of different home security systems is provided, including installation, monthly cost, best for, starter equipment price, contract required, and smart home compatibility.
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Fence it Off:
- Fences are recommended as an obvious barrier, but details on the type of fence and locking mechanism are discussed.
- Considerations for choosing a solid fence are mentioned based on individual risks.
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Final Word:
- The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of securing both the inside and outside of the home.
- Additional tips include keeping the yard clean and improving the overall security of the backyard.
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Expert Input: The article incorporates insights from an expert advisor, Dr. Ben Stickle, described as a criminal justice and theft expert. Dr. Stickle provides additional tips at the end of each section, adding credibility to the advice provided.
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Additional Content: The article includes related articles on SafeWise, covering topics such as motion sensor lights, home security cameras, window and door sensors, burglary stats, and a comprehensive guide on home security.
In summary, the article is a comprehensive guide on securing the backyard, shedding light on various aspects of home security, and providing actionable tips backed by expert advice.
