Safe Guarding Advice
1. Location, Location, Location
Choosing the right spot for your inflatable is the first step in keeping it safe. Position your decoration in a well-lit area that is easily visible from your home or your neighbours’ properties. Thieves and vandals are far less likely to target an inflatable that is highly visible and well observed.
Avoid placing inflatables near quiet, secluded corners or next to back fences where they could be tampered with unnoticed.
2. Secure Your Inflatable Properly
Use all provided ropes, stakes, and tie-down points to anchor your inflatable securely to the ground.
For even more protection:
- Add extra tent pegs or garden stakes.
- Attach weighted sandbags or heavy-duty water bags to the base.
- Consider using screw-in ground anchors for a firmer hold.
A well-secured inflatable is much harder to remove quickly.
3. Add Motion-Sensor Lighting
A simple motion-activated light can be a brilliant deterrent. If someone approaches your inflatable at night, the sudden burst of light is often enough to send them running. Position lights to cover your display area without disturbing the festive ambience.
4. Consider Security Cameras
If security is a concern in your area, installing a visible outdoor camera can be a major deterrent. Even a basic Wi-Fi security camera or a fake dummy camera can discourage unwanted attention.
5. Bring It Inside When Necessary
If you're expecting wild weather, hosting a late-night party, or simply heading away for the weekend, consider deflating your inflatable and bringing it indoors. It only takes a few minutes and can prevent both accidental and intentional damage.
6. Personalise Your Inflatable
Adding a subtle, hidden mark — such as writing your initials in a concealed spot using permanent marker — can help identify your decoration if it’s ever stolen and recovered.
7. Trust Your Community
Neighbours looking out for one another can be one of the best deterrents. A quick chat with nearby households to keep an eye out for your festive friends can go a long way towards safeguarding your display.