Updates on
- COVID-19
- Site security
- Flooding
COVID-19
Please do remember to use gloves or hand sanitiser when you open or close the site gate. The pandemic is still very much with us, and we want to make sure that all plotholders feel safe on site. We hope to hold a social distancing event on site on the first Sunday in November and will keep you posted.
Site security
The Committee met on Monday 27 July and discussed at length the recent site break-in we have had for some time. We agreed that it would be impossible to fully protect our site but that there were some sensible things that could be done to minimise the risk of break-in or loss. We have received some helpful advice from the police to share with you (below), and we will also be working with the Council to improve our external fencing.
- Possibly the most important piece of advice is not to leave anything of value on your plot, whether in a locked shed or not. If you do, you should keep it out of sight and be aware that this is at your own risk.
- If you prefer to lock your shed to prevent sheds being damaged, invest in a decent lock and fitting. A padlock with a concealed shackle means the lock is less likely to be cut but the padlock is only as good as the fitting it is attached to. You might also consider purchasing a shed alarm, which may deter any intruders, although if could give the impression there were items of particular value stored.
- Mark up your tools either with an engraving or an ultra-violet pen to identify them as your own. Herts Police sometimes run tool-marking days so keep an eye out on the Herts Police website/Facebook page etc. This is good for any power tools, lawnmowers, strimmers etc or just anything of value. It helps identify them if they get stolen. It also applies to anything within your home such as tools, electricals etc.
- Register your valuables (from your shed or home) on immobilise.com. This is a free UK property register site and again, it helps identify them if they get stolen or try to be sold on. Take photographs of your valuable items, including any distinguishing features, marks, dents etc.
- Go on sites SoldSecure and SecuredByDesign which offer a range of high security products which are approved. These include padlocks, cameras and other home security products.
Flooding
As you will all know, some plots on the site were flooded recently. We have been investigating, thanks to Damien and Barbara, how the flood was caused. A communication has been received from Affinity Water, as it was thought that the flood might have been caused by work on the river Ver. We will keep you informed as we know more. Clearly it is not a problem in the summer months but we do not want the same thing to happen in the Winter!