30

Aug
2016

7 Tips for Preventing Graffiti

August 30th, 2016 | by admin admin | in Security Advice |    0   

Graffiti: art or vandalism? Prevent it or promote it? Some graffiti artists see blank walls as ugly public spaces better used for social commentary. Working alone or in crews, many teens simply enjoy the thrill of making their mark anywhere they can.

For most business owners, however, indecipherable “tags” and messages scrawled in spray paint are an expensive nuisance at best. At worst, they create a hostile environment that leads to more crime and fewer customers. If you belong to the latter camp, here are some tips for preventing and removing graffiti:

1. Lighting: Graffiti taggers like to work in the dark. Direct bright lights on your vulnerable walls. Motion sensors can help you save on energy costs.

2. Limit access: Bolt down benches and other items that allow youths to reach blank surfaces. Plant thorny plants, such as berry bushes, that do not obstruct sightlines or create hiding places. A “beware of poison ivy” can be an effective deterrent.

3. Coatings: Highly textured surfaces, highly smooth surfaces, metal and enamel are difficult to deface. “Barrier” coatings—polyurethane, fibreglass or porcelain—make surfaces easier to clean, but keep in mind that plastic coatings can facilitate wood rot. “Sacrificial” coatings can be removed easily, along with any graffiti, and then re-applied.

4. Murals: Multi-coloured designs make graffiti more difficult to apply and less visible. Hiring local artists or involving teens and the surrounding community can take away some motivation for graffiti.

5. Dark paints also make graffiti hard to see.

6. Security cameras: A monitored video surveillance system, such as Radius’ remote guarding solution, can allow security operators to confront vandals by triggering lights and sirens.

7. Clean up: Remove graffiti as soon as possible, either by using appropriate cleaners and solvents yourself, or by employing a graffiti removal service. Graffiti takes time and money (paints) to produce. If no one sees the results, it isn’t worth the effort.

More resources:

The Project for Public Spaces. Preventing Graffiti.

City of Toronto. Tips for Preventing and Removing Graffiti Vandalism.

Toronto Police Service. Graffiti Prevention and Control.

 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.

Radius Security Vancouver, West Vancouver, North Vancouver, Burnaby, New Westminster, Richmond, Surrey, Langley, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Ladner, Delta, Tsawwassen

©