Improved security is key to reducing rural crime and deterring thieves

With crime in rural areas on the increase, we take a look at some simple ways to protect your property from criminals

When it comes to safeguarding your rural property, taking steps to deter would-be criminals is the most important tool.

Such has been the rise in instances of rural crime in areas like the east and north-east of Scotland that organisations such as NFU Scotland (NFUS) and the Tayside Partnership Against Rural Crime (Tay PARC) have been running events to help raise awareness and share best practice.

From farm security measures that can be implemented to deter criminal activity to equipment that can be used to help detect stolen property – there is much that can be done to protect valuable possessions.

One of the biggest issues in rural crime is the theft of expensive vehicles and machinery.

Items such as tractors, quads and livestock trailers are often shipped abroad or dismantled and sold as spare parts.

According to UK rural insurer NFU Mutual, there are some points to consider when protecting your rural home and property:

AGRICULTURAL VEHICLES Mark with the industry-standard CESAR identification marking system Fit a tracking device and immobiliser Use preparatory devices such as Quad Vice to protect quads

Remove keys when not in use and store out of sight

Keep GPS-equipped tractors in secure buildings – or remove kits when not in use

FARMS

Secure doors with five-lever mortice locks or good quality padlocks and locking bars

Chain and padlock gates to yards and fields when not in use

Keep fuel tanks in secure compounds and consider a tank alarm

Store tools and equipment in a specialised security container

Speak to a professional about fitting an alarm and CCTV

HOME

Never leave keys in locks and always close and bolt windows when you are out Keep fences in good condition When you are out at night, use timers or smart lighting to give the impression someone is home

Keep shotguns and firearms locked in a high security gun cabinet or safe

Consider an alarm and CCTV and combine it with signs to deter thieves

CAR

Keep keyless fobs in a signal-blocking Faraday packet overnight, and do not leave any keys by windows or letterboxes

Fit an alarm, tracking device, immobiliser, or all three

Do not only rely on electronic security, steering wheel and pedal locks are effective too

Park in well-lit areas, or install a security light on your driveway

Never leave valuables in your car overnight

Pictures: Shutterstock. Top: Quads can be protected with QuadVice devices. Above: Gates to yards should be padlocked when not in use; thieves can be put off by being made aware of CCTV operating.