There is rarely a legitimate reason for plant machinery and tractors to be used late at night or in the early hours. Report any such unusual movement to police on 101 Non Emergency Number. If you see heavy plant machinery on the move during these times it is highly likely that it has been stolen, and possibly about to be used in a crime.
Extra vigilance is especially required where plant machinery is located in the vicinity of Automated Teller Machines (ATM’s). Please report anything suspicious.
There are a few simple steps that can be taken to help protect plant machinery and reduce the chances of them being stolen.
What can you do?
- As a precaution disable plant machinery at the end of the day.
- Remove ignition keys when plant is unattended and don’t leave them under the seat!
- Make sure plant can’t be started when it is not in use.
- Use all security devices supplied with the plant to secure it overnight.
- Cut off electricity to equipment that could be used to help someone steal the plant.
- Ensure all small tools and equipment is stored in a high security cabinet or enclosure.
- Restrict access to your yard, the fewer ways in the better, use locked gates or security posts if practicable.
- Fit alarms to tool sheds, consider installing CCTV to yards and vulnerable areas, remember, technology complements good security, it doesn’t replace it.
- Identify items as yours, engrave your postcode and house number on smaller tools etc. Paint your herd or farm name on trailers, record and keep all serial and model numbers. Fit quads, ride-on mowers and similar equipment with specialist marking kits.
You can download the following leaflets for further information and guidance:
