Farm Security
The Hi-Tech route to Farm Security
There is no doubt that technology is having a major impact on farming today – and that applies as much to security as it does to every other aspect.
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THE DAYS WHEN controlling access to farmyards meant remembering to close the gate are long gone and with farms and other agricultural enterprises being targets for thieves, it is worth taking a look at the latest equipment designed to protect your premises from criminals.
Floodlights, surveillance cameras and intruder alert systems are the best ways of deterring unwelcome visitors.
A wide choice of individual components and complete systems is now available to farms wanting to make their premises more secure. And as with any other purchase, it is worth shopping around. The cheapest may be tempting but not necessarily be the best investment. What you need are high-quality items put together by operators with a good knowledge of the agricultural industry and what it needs – in terms of both practical usage and durability in what is often a hostile environment.
The development of reliable wireless technology is helping cut the cost of installation and provide the versatility that comes from being able to move sensors and cameras to wherever they are needed at different times of the year.
The ability to receive text message alerts and video clips on mobile phones and view camera outputs over the internet on the office computer has added a new dimension to access control. Solar and wind power and longer-lasting batteries, together with the universal mobile phone coverage provided by GPRS, enables camera systems to be operated in the most remote of locations.
Again, quality is a key issue: in respect of the daily and longer-term reliability of wireless systems and other components and in the quality of images captured by the cameras.
The mere presence of cameras should act as a deterrent. But we all know that if the day comes when they record a thief in action, we need to be able to see his face clearly enough to stand a chance of recognition and prosecution.
Ideally, however, you want to detect the presence of intruders before they reach your property, in which case a wireless Infrared security beam near the driveway entrance will give an early warning of the arrival of a visitor, customer or intruder.
Outdoor fuel tanks are an absolute necessity on farms but can be extremely vulnerable and an easy target for thieves. Fuel thefts occur all too often throughout the yearEven the loss of half a tank of fuel going missing is a costly blow – you face the cost of replacing not just the
fuel but replacing damaged locks and fuel tank parts, your valuable time sorting it all out and the sheer hassle involved.
Also high on the“ most wanted” list for criminals are quad bikes. Thieves go to any lengths to get their hands on these machines which are often stolen“ to order” or broken up and sold for parts.
Outbuildings are the favourite choice of opportunist thieves and once they gain
entry, they can seek out the most valuable and easy items to steal.
In all these cases, the installation of a point to point beam or multiple beam system, strategically placed, can warn of any intruders before they reach the most vulnerable areas.
If the Police are notified when the thieves are actually on site and in the act, they have a very good chance of actually catching them and ending the cycle of crime in the area.
Combat Rural Theft
High Security Products for Everyday Use
Full Range Of British Manufactured Security Products Suitable For Your Farm Outbuildings Vehicles & Trailers.
● GPS Tracking Devices
● High Security Chains & Ground Anchors
● Wheelclamps & Hitchlocks
● Fuel Tank Locks
● Garage & Workshop Door Locks
● Full Range Of Security Posts
www. bulldogsecure. com 01952 728171
www. farmers-mart. co. uk Oct / Nov 2016 69