5 Ways to Ward Off Farm Theft
Author
Published
1/10/2020
Install CCTV Cameras…Lights, Cameras, Action
CCTV (Closed-circuit television), also known as video surveillance, is one of the best ways you can protect yourself. Well-placed cameras can help you watch over your most vulnerable areas. For a cheaper option, consider dummy CCTV cameras. Home security apps enable you to view your property remotely.
You should also keep outbuildings, yards and houses well lit. Whether you leave lights on or have them motion-activated, it will discourage criminals who don’t want to be seen.
Lock It Up
Store what you can inside outbuildings that can be locked up tight with locking bars or high-security padlocks. Fuel tanks, large equipment and tools should be locked up inside. Store power tools in lockable containers that are also attached to the ground or wall. Keep a record of serial numbers or log all pieces of equipment so you can keep track of equipment in the event of farm theft.
Take Away the Keys
Store ATVs or UTVs inside an outbuilding. You should also remove the keys when they’re not in use. Keep these in the house with you or in a different location. You can also use wheel clamps or locking posts to keep them secure. Consider parking larger vehicles in front of doors to complicate access.
Leave a Mark
Leave a security marking on equipment and register them when you can. Put your zip code on the top of your trailers so they can be easily seen from the sky. You can paint your equipment in bright colors or put on a warning decal that will help them be spotted if they are taken. For your livestock, mark them using a recommended method and/or look into microchipping.
Use Layers of Security
The more security precautions you take, the more likely a criminal is to not even bother. Adding immobilizers or chip keys, or removing batteries and wheels helps you keep your peace of mind.
If you are the victim of a theft, reach out to your Farm Bureau agent and they will help start the claims process.
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