During National Rural Crime Action Week, H&H Insurance Brokers is urging farmers to take extra steps to avoid becoming another target.
Amanda Wallbank says that putting measures in place to deter thieves could keep farms and rural properties safer from intruders.
“As the clocks go back and the long, dark evenings draw in, many people living in isolated, rural locations can often feel more vulnerable during the winter months,” she said
“Being targeted by criminals looking to steal vehicles and equipment is a constant worry for farmers. It’s not just the fact that they could lose a valuable piece of equipment which will impact on their ability to do their job, but the knowledge that someone has trespassed on their property to take it. It means there’s often an emotional cost to rural crime as well as a financial one.
“A good first step is to view your property from the perspective of a potential criminal. What can they see from the roadside? Are gates generally open or shut? Are there any CCTV cameras in operation? Criminals may scope out a property during daytime and come back after dark to commit the crime.”
Amanda suggests locking equipment away in a secure building and investing in a secure storage box as just some of the measures that can help deter thieves. She also advises marking tools and equipment, and registering them, as well as keeping a record of all valuable items. Installing CCTV and security lights will also act as a deterrent.
“Community initiatives such as Farm Watch play a vital role in the fight against rural crime through prevention, education and providing an early warning system for any suspicious activity in the area.
“Whether it’s sharing practical crime prevention measures or reporting suspicious activity via WhatsApp groups, they show the value in working together as a community to help tackle thefts from farms and make the countryside a safer place for people to live and work.
“If you do see any suspicious activity or are the victim of rural crime, then always report it to the police.”