West Yorkshire police are turning to prickly shrubs to help offer crime prevention advice.
Officers are advising homeowners that prickly shrubs can be used to help protect their property. Police in Calderdale say the shrubs can act as an attractive alternative to barbed wire on fences and walls.
Crime prevention officer PC Keith Williams said: “Today, defensive shrubbery can offer an attractive alternative to the unsightly methods of barbed wire. I am sure many of you will recall using a dock leaf to cure a nettle sting. Although stinging nettles will deter some intruders, it will not deter more persistent offenders.
“Defensive shrubbery, such as climbing roses, are some of the more inhospitable shrubs that can be purchased to prevent intruders from getting too close to a property. While these shrubs are unpleasant and painful to touch, they will in most cases display a variety of colours in your garden.”
PC Williams is also urging residents not to leave valuable garden equipment outside their property but to keep it secure in a garage or shed. PC Williams said: “Very few offenders will walk up to your door and break in. Most will target an insecure house or take property that has been left on view. Buying a few prickly plants will help to protect your property.”
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