7 Ways to Deter Trespassers

In the first six months of 2019, our Redhanded security system led to 226 police apprehensions. The vast majority of those apprehensions, whether at construction sites, auto dealerships or other sites, involved trespassers. So, what are the best ways to deter trespassers on your property?

1. Install a fence. A simple chain-link fence marks off the perimeters of your property to prevent passersby from accidentally wandering onto your property. It is also more difficult to take items off site with a fence in the way. However, our Command Center often watches suspects cut or push through fences and climb over them. They can be breached

2. Block any equipment or supplies from view. Use construction banners and similar barriers to block the view of any assets from the street. Keeping your valuables out of sight is one of the best ways of deterring theft and vandalism.

Recently, Radius Security introduced a banner program to help our customers with deterring trespassers. We find that when items are out of sight, it is less likely for people to try to steal them. If you would like more information on this program, please contact your sales representative for more details or call 877-632-2407.

3. Add a gate. A fence with a sturdy gate and lock is more secure than a fence alone, but still needs to be supplemented. An access control system can help you track persons entering and exiting the site.

How gate access control cuts costs, improves safety

4. Put up signs. Highly visible “no trespassing” signs may deter casual visitors. For more determined offenders, warning signs make it clear suspects are knowingly entering a property without permission, the definition of trespassing. In states like Texas according to the Penal Code Title 7. Offences against Property which states that in order to be criminal trespassing without consent the “trespasser” must have (1) had notice that the entry was forbidden. This specific “No Trespassing” verbiage will help prosecute suspects, if anyone successfully enters your job site or car lot.

5. Install lighting. Strong, bright lights make it much harder for suspects to sneak onto a site, and much easier to expose them. Access points and storage areas, especially, need to be well lit. Proper lighting also indicates workers may be on site.

6. Lock it up! Don’t tempt trespassers. Keep your valuables out of sight and secure. At a construction site, for example, lock away your tools, equipment and copper wiring. In particular secure tools, such as saws, which can be used to break locks and fences. At an auto dealership, block your exits so that it is obviously difficult to drive vehicles away.

7. Consider a monitoring company that doesn’t solely rely on lights and sirens. While these may scare off persons who accidentally wander onto a property, Radius operators often find determined trespassers ignore such warnings—until the police arrive.

Virtually all of our Command Center’s 226 apprehensions this year began with an alert issued by a video-analytics-enabled Redhanded camera. While operators tracked a suspect’s movements on video, they also notified police. The video alarm verification ensured a high-priority police response so that officers could swiftly apprehend any trespassers and either take them into custody or escort them off site. Even one apprehension, studies show, can prevent or solve up to 30 additional crimes.

Note: This blog discusses general safety and security topics. It is not intended to provide comprehensive advice or guidance. In all matters of personal safety and security, We encourage readers to research topics in depth and consult a security professional about specific concerns.