Did you ever have a stranger drive into your yard and ask for directions? Keep on reading...

There's been a lot of attention about farmers, protection and guns in the media recently. At Reed Security we've seen an increase of 25% about farm security, cabin security and acreage security over the past two years.

So, what are people concerned about? We interviewed Dave and Vicki Dutton from Dutton Farms in Paynton, SK about their concerns and here's what we found:  

WHAT ARE FARMERS CONCERNED ABOUT?

"Theft is our biggest concern. We can't always be at the farm to keep an eye on things". Here were their concerns:

• home break-in
• shop break-in
• vehicle theft
• fuel theft 
• theft of keys
• theft of wallets, cash, credit cards, ID
• theft of guns
• theft of tools
• theft of chemicals
• confrontation 

DIRECTIONS PLEASE

"We live on a busy highway and a number of people come into our yard. When a lost stranger drives into your yard and asks for directions - are they really lost? Or could it be that they're scoping your place out?"  

Just about everybody has maps on their smartphones. You should pay particular attention to the make and model of the vehicle and even the license plate if you can. Also make notes about the person's description and age. The Police will need this information in the event of a reported theft.

5 SOLUTIONS TO INCREASE FARM PROTECTION NOW

Better security is a better solution.  Reed Security recommends installing several layers of security instead of relying on only one. 

1. Install an Alarm System with 24/7 Monitoring in your Home and Shop
   -coverage on doors and windows
   -smart motion sensor coverage in common spaces and hallways
   -consider fire, low temp. and flood protection
   -consider installing ALARM.COM smart security automation
   -we notify you, the neighbors and the Police
   -you may qualify for an Insurance Discount of up to 25%
   -lock your doors when you leave the yard
   
   
2. Install ReedHD Cameras
   -up to 26x more detail than standard definition
   -we know which cameras to install where
   -ability to record Faces and License plates*
   -see in the dark
   -records for 10 to 30 days before recycling data
   -Smart Phone apps to remotely see cameras from Anywhere
   
   
3. Install ReedHD Smart Cameras
   -all the features of ReedHD Cameras
   -People and Vehicle Detection analytics
   -ignores all other objects such as birds or animals
   -People and Vehicle Detection alerts are sent to your smartphone app
   
   
4. Get Your Cameras remotely Monitored with UCIT Video Monitoring
   -trained operators receive alerts from ReedHD Smart Cameras
   -operators perform a remote look in video tour
   -we notify you, the neighbors and the Police
   -choose a schedule
   
   
5. Advertise Your Active Security Measures
   -install warning signage and decals
   -show your friends, family and neighbors your security measures including your smartphone apps
   -thieves think twice before targeting farms with active security measures
   

All About Theft

• 66% of break-in's are forced entry and forced entry attempts
• 34% of break-in's are unlawful entry (without force)
• In 2014, Saskatchewan had 8506 break-in's (164/week)
• Break-in's occur in all areas of the City - not just the "bad areas"
• Most Home break-in's occur when you are at work or travelling (daytime)
• Most Business break-in's occur when you are at home (evening and weekends)
• Cabin's and Lake properties are especially attractive
• 98% of break-in's occur though main floor doors and windows (often unlocked)
• Thieves target the Master Bedroom
• Thieves steal:
  • Cash and Credit Cards
  • Jewelry
  • Designer clothes and sunglasses
  • Electronics such as TV's, Stereos, Computers, Video Game systems, Smartphones and Tablets
  • Tools
  • Sporting Goods
  • Cars and Trucks or the contents in them
  • Building Materials
  • Alcohol and Prescription drugs
  • Your Identity

How to Prevent Theft

• Use Common Sense
  • If you lose a key, get the locks changed.
  • Ask all strangers for identification.
  • Never hide an extra key outdoor - especially underneath a mat or on top of a light fixture. This is the first place the bad guys look. Leave an extra house key with a friend or a neighbor.
  • DO NOT advertise on Facebook or other social media that you are on vacation. If you want to post photos, then do it when you get home.
  • For insurance purposes take photos of the contents of your home.
  • Keep all receipts in a safe and easy to find location.
  • Write down the model and serial number of all electronics.
• Make it Difficult
  • Door chains are easy to bypass. Install deadbolts.
  • Install a stopper or stick on all sliding doors and windows.
  • Install window bars on all basement windows.
  • Make sure all doors and windows are properly locked.
  • Keep your premises well lit at night.
  • Install timers that turn lights on at different times. This gives the appearance that someone is home.
• Install a monitored Home Security system
  • 400% less likely to have a break-in.
  • up to 25% insurance discount.
  • optional ALARM.COM with automatic lights.
• In case you do have a break-in:
  • If it looks like a door or window was forced open, DO NOT go inside. The Burglar may still be on site.
  • Call the Police from your cellular phone or from a neighbor's house and wait.

Source: Department of Justice, Statistics Canada, Saskatoon Police Service, FBI, Insurance Institute of Canada, 18 Years Experience


If you would like more information on any Reed Security Product or Service please

FREE ESTIMATES in Prince Albert call 306.922.7200
FREE ESTIMATES in Saskatoon call 306.653.3200