If you operate a junkyard, you might always be worried about the possibility of break-ins. There is always the possibility that someone will try to enter your junkyard after hours to steal expensive parts off of cars or to vandalize your property, for example. A crafty thief might be able to figure out how to enter the property, but there are things that you can do to protect it and make it more secure without spending a ton of money, such as by following the tips below.
Install a Good Fence
The first thing that you should do when it comes to making your junkyard more secure is to install a good fence. A good, secure commercial chain link fence should do the job. Make sure that you install sturdy gates with locks as well. There is the possibility that someone could try to climb the fence, but having a fence in place is a good first step to having a more secure junkyard.
Get a Dog
It might seem cliche, but there is a reason why many junkyard owners keep dogs on their properties. Even if a dog isn't particularly aggressive and isn't trained to attack those who enter the property, it simply being present can be enough to help discourage thieves and vandals from entering the property. Just make sure that you are aware of the cost of care for a dog and the liabilities of having a dog on your commercial property before you do choose to purchase or adopt one.
Put Up Security Cameras
A potential thief or vandal who sees that there are plenty of security cameras set up on-site might think twice before entering your junkyard and committing any crimes. Years ago, buying security cameras was expensive. Nowadays, though, there are a lot of security camera options that can be purchased without you spending a lot of money. You might not even have to hire a professional to help you with installing your security cameras; instead, you might be able to simply follow the directions and install them yourself, particularly if you opt for wireless security cameras.
Install More Lighting
If it's dark around your junkyard at night, it might be easier for someone to get away with entering the property and committing a crime. Installing plenty of lighting is an excellent way to make the junkyard safer and more secure, and you don't have to spend a ton of money to install new lighting to enjoy these benefits, either.