Five tips to protect from rural crime

Stay Vigilant: Protecting Your Rural Property from Theft

Whether your agricultural business is big or small, rural properties often have valuable assets that can attract thieves. Fortunately, as technology and connectivity advance, there are now effective ways to safeguard your property and deter potential criminals.

John Hill from Land Watch shared insights on the latest trends in rural crime and provided practical tips to help protect your property.

1. Deterrence is Key

The best way to protect your property is to prevent thieves from even attempting entry. Make your front gate a strong point of defense by installing visible cameras, flashing lights, and sirens. As John Hill explained, “If someone sees a camera at the front gate, they’re more likely to move on to the next property.” Prioritize deterrence over concealment and make your property appear harder to access than neighboring ones.

2. Know Your Property’s Vulnerabilities

Rural properties are often home to high-value items, like Landcruisers, fuel tanks, and livestock. Thieves know this. Fuel theft is especially common, as the cost of fuel continues to rise, with both large quantities and small amounts stolen from properties. Ensure you’re aware of what assets are most at risk and take steps to protect them.

3. Protect Livestock and Infrastructure Near Roads

Livestock theft is a growing issue, particularly for properties with yards or gates near highways. Visible cameras can act as a strong deterrent, with thieves steering clear of well-monitored areas. John Hill shared a case where camera installation drastically reduced thefts, sending a clear message to the community.

4. Install the Right Cameras

Make sure your cameras are placed where they will have the most impact—at property entrances. Once thieves have entered, their adrenaline is high, and they’re less likely to be deterred. Opt for cameras capable of reading number plates for added security. For areas like fuel tanks or livestock enclosures, smaller fixed cameras often work well.

5. Connectivity Is No Longer a Barrier

With advancements like Starlink and wireless connectivity, setting up cameras in even the most remote areas is now possible and affordable. Ensure your cameras are connected to a central system so that footage can be saved and accessed remotely, even if the camera is damaged.

Stay one step ahead of criminals with these practical strategies to secure your rural property.

‍
Let's build on our neighbourhood watch where everyone looks out for each other!