Farm insurance is essential for the day-to-day running of a farm. It’s also there to protect you and your assets should theft occur on your property, but there are a few simple steps you can take to minimise the risk of anything being stolen from your farm.

Some of these tips can be used on a daily basis, others rely on a longer term strategy, but the important thing is to make sure that you’re doing all you can to protect your belongings on the farm.

Assess access points

If you’re very used to your surroundings, you may take access lanes for granted and assume that they won’t be noticed. But in rural areas there can be hidden entrances to your property – via lanes, through hedges or fences, on roads. Take the time to survey your farm once in a while to check that all borders, entrances and exits are well secured.

Store equipment safely

Where possible, try to store all equipment away from sight. The less that people can see when passing by, the less likely they are to assume it’s there. This goes for any value of machinery, vehicles, equipment for animals and tools. Keep all of this locked away as securely as possible and hidden from roads, footpaths and above.

Brand vehicles and equipment

If possible, create a permanent mark on your moveable belongings. Someone may think twice before stealing something that is easily identifiable and trackable. If an item is stolen, you’ll also be able to easily prove that it’s rightfully yours.

Keep keys safe

It’s reported that around a third of tractor theft happens from stolen keys. Don’t leave keys lying around, or in jackets. If they’re kept in your property at night make sure they are safely stored and not near a door or on an open hook.

Safety lights and alarms

Good lighting and a reliable alarm system are both good safety measures to help protect your farm from theft. Darker areas are easier to target for thieves, so making sure everywhere is well lit will be a deterrent. Having alarms installed on outbuildings as well as your home will also show that it’s a secure and protected area.

Vary your schedule

Consider changing your routine fairly often. Anyone who is surveying your property will quickly learn when you are carrying out certain tasks, so if you can swap the times you do some things, then it may be worthwhile.

Don’t forget, if you’re in a rural area, the chances are that your community will be willing to help you out and will more than likely let you know if they spot anything suspicious. But you can’t solely rely on that information, not everyone can always be watching out.

Most importantly, you must ensure that your farm insurance is right for you. There are many options available and add ons that could further protect you from theft, as well as other risks involved in farming.

Britton Insurance has a long established track record of providing competitive quotations to meet your specific needs. Our farm staff are all fully trained professionals with years of experience in the industry. Call us today for a quote.