Farmhouses can be vulnerable to crime when they are left unattended, and can become easy targets for thieves. There are some precautions that can be taken to reduce the likelihood of an unlawful entry when the owner is away from home for any period of time.
Create signs of life
Make it appear as though someone is inside.
- Keep blinds and curtains in normal positions, not closed becasue you are away
- Don’t advertise that you are not home by leaving notes for tradesmen or friends
- Ensure doors and windows are of solid construction
- Have key operated window locks fitted to all perimeter windows and fit deadlocks to doors
- Walk around you house and view it through the eyes of a thief. What are the easy points of entry? Can you make them more secure?
- Don’ leave tools or garden implements in the yard. Lock them away in a garage or shed
- Keep firearms secure in a locked steel cabinet securely bolted to the floor
- Keep an inventory of all household items of value including serial numbers and models and photograph or mark your property
- Install automatic timers to turn you lights on and off to coincide with daily living routine.
Insurance
It is very important to have adequate insurance for your equipment and livestock as well as contents of your building. Insurance companies can give advice on costs of insurance and also other ways to make your farm secure.
Remember to report any suspicious behaviours by contacting police. You can also contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.