Keeping gardens secure with detection technologies

Gardens are appealing targets for theft due to valuable items such as bikes, tools, and furniture often left exposed. The serene seclusion of gardens can attract burglars seeking hidden entry points into the property. Outdoor intrusion detection technologies have become a standard solution for not only detecting early attempted intrusions into a building, but also to protect its surroundings and prevent theft or damage to the furniture and valuables that are kept in gardens and on patios.

Gardens come in all shapes and sizes, and often include a wide variety of spaces, from corridor-like areas at the sides of the house to large open landscaped spaces, and of course the perimeter itself. The selection of the most appropriate detection technology is determined by a number of variables, including the potential threats, as well as the shape and size of the space to be protected.

Safeguarding boundaries

One of the primary challenges in garden security is securing the perimeter. A garden's boundaries are often porous, with natural elements like shrubs and trees that can serve as hiding spots for potential intruders. Traditional fencing alone may not suffice in deterring determined intruders. This is where intrusion detection technology comes into play.

If the space to be protected is large but uneven, such as sloping or hillside gardens, high-mount sensors (commonly installed between 2m and 2.5m) are the most suitable option. Other spaces where these sensors are appropriate are where there is garden furniture, sports equipment, playground equipment or other structures that would hinder the detection of a sensor mounted at 1.2m. A high-mount sensor has the advantage of aesthetic discretion and protection against vandalism by being at a height where it is difficult to sabotage.

High security homes

For private residences or VIP homes requiring very high levels of security, LiDAR technology installed in horizontal mode can protect a large area by creating a virtual horizontal panel around the home. The laser sensor constantly scans the detection area and provides very accurate information of all detected objects, allowing security personnel to track the movement of intruders and know exactly where they are. Using the size information provided by the laser sensor, the system can be configured to detect only objects smaller or larger than a defined size, for example, ignoring pets and detecting people. The detection field can be custom configured to protect, for example, a swimming pool, and alert if someone or some object has fallen in outside the set timetable.

Conclusion

Every home and every space is different, so there is no single use guide when designing a garden security system; it is necessary to analyse on a case-by-case basis, assessing the environment, identifying threats and vulnerabilities. At OPTEX, we have extensive experience as leaders in external intrusion detectors and offer a wide range of solutions to provide a holistic approach to garden security. We believe the harmony between natural beauty and technological innovation can be maintained, ensuring that gardens remain serene havens while also being safeguarded by the latest and most effective security technology.