Rural Security 101: Ten tips for a safe farmyard

Rural crime has been a major issue for a long time, but vehicle and equipment thefts appear to be rising. Farms are often remote and don’t always have people around, making them a target for thieves. Farms are also situated miles from the nearest neighbour and much further from the nearest policing headquarters, so it can also take a while to get help.

Farmers and ranchers need to be proactive on protecting equipment, livestock, and even crops from thieves, and there are some basic tips and tricks that people living in rural areas can use to keep their property safe.

Carolyn McTighe, of the RCMP’s K-Division, put together this top 10 list for RealAgriculture followers in an effort to help keep property safe.

1. Install proper lighting – Not only does good farm yard lighting help producers keep from knocking a shin as they wander around in the dark, but it is one of the simplest and most effective ways to deter criminal activity. When investing in outdoor lighting, use LEDs that can withstand harsh winter weather, combined with motion-activated sensors to conserve energy.
2. Secure fencing and gates – Farmers work hard at having good fences to keep their livestock in, but fencing also works to keep unwanted visitors out. For fencing, opt for durable materials that can withstand cold weather, and consider using lockable gates with security codes or padlocks to control access to critical areas.
3. Use natural barriers – Not only can trees and bushes raise property value by making the homestead look more appealing, it can also block unauthorized access and guide people toward monitored areas. It is important not to unintentionally create new hiding places, though. Barriers like hedgerows (e.g., spruce trees)  can accomplish this well, as they are hardy and can be strategically placed to restrict access while still maintaining visibility.
4. Trim vegetation around buildings – Hiding spots can be found in long grass, bushes and even snow piles that often surround farm buildings. Trimming bushes and trees opens up sightlines and makes it easier to spot someone that might be approaching the home or outbuildings.
5. Add surveillance cameras – Not only do surveillance cameras help to monitor that moose that we have been trying to put in the freezer for the last three years, but they are also a great way of keeping an eye on property that thieves may be interested in. Invest in weatherproof cameras with infrared/night vision that can withstand extreme weather conditions and low-light environments.
6. Secure outbuildings and equipment – Barns, shops and farm equipment are often full of interesting and expensive tools that are needed to keep the farm running. Farmers know this, and so do thieves. While using locks on outbuildings and equipment might be inconvenient at times for the farmer, they are also inconvenient for the people that shouldn’t be accessing these things. Use disc locks on barns, sheds, and garages. Ensure high-value machinery is locked away, especially during long winters when the property might be less active.
7. Visible address and signage – In rural areas almost everyone is looking for a sign, but we’re not talking about a sign that the weather is about to change. Potential criminals are looking for signs that a property will be an easy target. They are also looking for signs that say the exact opposite. Clearly visible signage indicating property boundaries, warnings about CCTV surveillance, or even participation in a rural crime watch program can deter potential criminals. It is also important to ensure house and farm addresses are clearly marked so that emergency services or neighbourhood watch members can quickly locate the property.
8. Establish a community watch network – This tip may take a little more effort than some of the others on this list, but being friends with the neighbours is not only a hallmark of rural communities, it also helps to deter criminal activity. Consider joining or creating a Rural Crime Watch program with your neighbours to stay informed of suspicious activity and maintain open communication with local RCMP detachments.
9. Use guard animals – Animals such as dogs can make excellent companions and can also be used to deter predators, both of the two and four legged varieties. The presence of alert animals provides an extra layer of monitoring, especially in rural, isolated areas.
10. Lock and inventory valuable items – In the rush of getting work done, it can be easy to forget to put tools away, but equipment and tools left out in the open make easy targets for theft. Securing and tracking valuable assets makes theft more difficult and increases recovery chances. Consider engraving identification numbers on tools and machinery, to help law enforcement recover stolen goods.

While rural crime will likely be an issue for the foreseeable future, it is possible to make the farmyard less vulnerable by implementing some, or all of these tips. By taking proactive steps, such as improving lighting, installing security cameras, securing equipment, and fostering good relationships with neighbours, rural property owners can create a more secure environment and deter potential criminals.

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