The warm weather has finally arrived, and with it comes the inevitable chore of lawn care. Your trusty lawn mower, your weapon of choice against the unruly grass, is ready for action. But have you ever stopped to think about its safety? Lawn mowers, especially those powered by gas, are unfortunately prime targets for thieves. This article will guide you through the steps to prevent your mower from becoming a stolen statistic, from simple security measures to more advanced deterrents.
The Short Answer: The best way to keep your lawn mower safe from theft is to secure it properly, make it difficult to steal, and deter thieves with visible security measures. This includes locking it up, using a motion sensor light, and engraving your identification on the mower.
## Secure Your Mower: Taking Basic Precautions
The first line of defense against lawn mower theft is making sure your mower is securely stored. This might seem obvious, but many people leave their mowers in vulnerable locations, making them easy targets.
1. Lock it Up:
- Invest in a Heavy-Duty Chain and Lock: A sturdy chain and padlock designed for outdoor use is the most basic and effective way to secure your mower. Ensure the chain is long enough to wrap around a secure object, such as a pole or a heavy-duty storage shed.
- Use a Storage Shed or Garage: If you have a storage shed or garage, always keep your mower inside. Secure the door with a strong lock and consider adding extra security features like motion sensor lights or a security system.
- Don’t Forget the Keys: If you have a self-propelled mower, make sure the keys are stored securely. Don’t leave them in the ignition, on the mower, or in an obvious location.
2. Hide It From Sight:
- Keep it Covered: Even if your mower is stored in a shed or garage, consider using a tarp or cover to obscure it from view. This helps to deter opportunistic thieves who may not be willing to take the extra time to investigate.
## Make it Difficult to Steal: Beyond the Basics
While locking your mower is a good starting point, you can make it even more difficult to steal by making it less appealing to thieves.
1. Mark Your Mower:
- Engraving: Engrave your name, address, or phone number on the mower using a permanent marker or an engraving tool. This can help police recover your mower if it is stolen.
- Unique Markers: Use a unique color spray paint or a bright sticker to make your mower stand out and easier to identify.
2. Invest in Anti-Theft Devices:
- Alarm Systems: There are alarm systems specifically designed for lawn mowers. These systems are triggered by motion or vibration and will alert you to any tampering with your mower.
- GPS Trackers: For a more advanced solution, consider a GPS tracker. These devices can track your mower’s location in real-time and allow you to remotely monitor its movements.
## Deter Thieves with Visible Security Measures
Visible security measures can be just as effective as physical deterrents in keeping thieves away.
1. Motion Sensor Lights:
- Installation: Install a motion sensor light outside your shed, garage, or near where your mower is stored. The bright light will make thieves think twice about trying to steal your mower.
- Placement: Place the light strategically so it covers a wide area and illuminates the surrounding space.
2. Security Cameras:
- Surveillance: Consider installing a security camera in your garage, shed, or outside your home. Even if the camera doesn’t record, the mere presence of a camera can be a deterrent.
- Remote Viewing: Choose a camera that allows you to view footage remotely. This way, you can check in on your mower and see if there’s any suspicious activity.
## Tips for Extra Security
Beyond the basic security measures, there are a few extra tips you can use to keep your mower safe:
- Don’t Leave it Out in the Open: If you’re using your mower, don’t leave it unattended in the open. Always keep it in sight or lock it up when you’re not using it.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your neighborhood and report any suspicious activity to the police.
- Store Fuel Separately: Don’t store fuel with the mower. Keep gas containers in a secure and well-ventilated area. This makes your mower less appealing to thieves and reduces the risk of a fire.
- Inform Neighbors: Let your neighbors know about your mower’s location and any security measures you have in place. This can help them be vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
- Don’t Forget About Your Tools: Don’t forget about your other lawn care tools, such as weed trimmers, hedge trimmers, and leaf blowers. These tools are also prime targets for thieves, so it’s important to secure them as well.
## What to Do if Your Mower is Stolen
Despite your best efforts, your mower could still be stolen. If this happens, it’s important to take action immediately.
- Report the Theft: Contact your local police department and file a police report.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: If your mower is insured, contact your insurance company and file a claim.
- Spread the Word: Notify your neighbors and post on local social media groups to see if anyone has seen your mower.
## In Conclusion
While no security measure is foolproof, you can significantly reduce the risk of lawn mower theft by implementing a combination of the strategies outlined in this article. Remember, a few simple steps can make a big difference in protecting your investment and ensuring you have your lawn mower ready when you need it. By taking the time to secure your mower and deter thieves, you can enjoy the warm weather and a well-maintained lawn, free from worry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Why are lawn mowers such a common target for thieves?
A: Lawn mowers are attractive to thieves due to their high resale value and relative ease of transportation. They are often left unattended in garages or yards, making them an easy target for opportunistic criminals. Additionally, the lack of serial number registration on many older mowers makes it difficult to trace them if they are stolen.
Q2: What are some common ways that lawn mowers are stolen?
A: Thieves often target lawn mowers left unattended in driveways or garages. They may also break into garages or sheds to steal them. Sometimes, thieves will load a lawnmower into a truck or van and drive away with it, or they may tow it away using a trailer. Unfortunately, even securing your yard may not be enough, as thieves will sometimes even steal lawn mowers right from the back of a pickup truck.
Q3: What are some tips for preventing lawn mower theft?
**A: ** There are many ways to deter lawn mower theft. The most effective strategy is to make your lawnmower as difficult to steal as possible. Keep your lawnmower in a secure location, such as a locked garage or shed. Consider using a heavy-duty chain and lock to secure it to a stationary object, and make sure to use a lock that is resistant to picking or cutting.
Q4: Should I engrave my lawnmower with my information?
A: Yes, engraving your lawnmower with your identification information is a good idea. This can help to deter theft, and it can make it easier for law enforcement to recover your lawnmower if it is stolen. Use an engraving kit to mark your lawnmower with your name, address, or phone number in a visible location, but be mindful of any local regulations on engraving personal information on tools.
Q5: Are there any other security measures I can take?
A: In addition to the steps mentioned above, you can also take some preventative measures to discourage theft. Consider installing motion-sensing lights and security cameras in your yard, especially if your lawnmower is stored outside. Be sure to have a well-lit area for your mower and ensure your yard is well-maintained, as this will deter criminals from viewing your property as an easy target.
Q6: What should I do if my lawnmower is stolen?
A: If your lawnmower is stolen, report the theft to your local police department immediately. Provide as much detail as possible about the lawnmower, including the make, model, and serial number (if available). You should also notify your insurance company.
Q7: Can I get my lawnmower back if it is stolen?
A: There is no guarantee that you will get your lawnmower back if it is stolen. However, if you have taken steps to secure it and report the theft to the police, you have a better chance of recovering it. The police may be able to recover your lawnmower through an investigation, or you may be able to recover it yourself by searching local pawn shops or online marketplaces. You can also check with local recycling and scrap yards to see if anyone has attempted to dispose of your mower.