A leading insurance company, NFU Mutual, has said that crime is on the up in rural areas. The cost stolen goods in rural areas has risen from £41m in 2009 to £49.7m in 2010. And power tools were the most stolen items in 2010 says the insurance company.

Along with smaller, easier to steal and sell power tools, larger items of equipment such as quads and tractors have also been targeted by thieves. Many of which will get sold abroad.

They have said “Nearly 60% of thefts from farms or outbuildings was the biggest problem, while 12% said garden sheds and garages attracted thieves”. However, these numbers can be cut, if some simple steps are followed.

Firstly, mark all power tools, and farm equipment such as quads and tractors clearly with your postcode. If you can, physically mark the item by carving your postcode into it. This will make it less attractive to thieves and easier to return to you should it get recovered by the police.

Secondly, lock all your tools away in a secure cabinet. Make sure this cabinet is fixed securely to a wall or the floor to make it very difficult for intruders to lift it away. Lock all the larger items, such as lawn mowers and quad bikes either together or to the floor or a wall using a heavy duty chain. And remember, always use good quality padlocks.

Thirdly, make your barns and outbuildings as secure as possible. Fit heavy duty locks and chains to deter potential thieves. Fit high power security lights to illuminate any activity at night. Install CCTV cameras> some of these can be hard for thieves to spot, whilst others are a great visual deterrent. Fit stand alone burglar alarms which do not require mains power and can phone you if the alarm is triggered.

Finally, remember to report any suspicious activity to the police and any break-ins, attempted break-ins or thefts as soon as you can.

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