Welsh Police Services have warned farmers to ensure that their properties are secure while they are away visiting the Royal Welsh Show in Builth Wells. The police expect to see a rise in instances of theft on farms in Wales as thousands of farmers leave home and descend on the Royal Welsh showground for the week,
Under the banner of ‘Operation Homestead Cymru’ Welsh Police Services have reminded potential criminals that there will be more patrols across the Welsh countryside. Rob Taylor, the Wildlife and Rural Crime Coordinator, said:
‘It is clear that rural criminals are aware of the importance to farmers of the show season and in particular the Royal Welsh Show, when farms can be vacant for several days. Criminals take advantage of this and target these farms for thefts and burglaries.’
He shared several pieces of simple advice to farmers to ensure that they protect themselves from criminals:
- Check all safety measures and ensure that they all work.
- Make sure that all buildings are locked and that any machinery within is safe.
- Ensure that all your CCTV cameras are operational and will record any movements on the farm.
- Let your neighbours know when you are away and when you are due to return.
- Lock all gates that give access to the farm, whether they are on the drive or via a field. If possible reverse one of the gate’s hinges so that they cannot be lifted.
- If possible, ask for someone to stay at the farm.
- Use lighting around the farm, whether they are triggered by movement or set to a timed schedule.
You can find more recommendations by Rob Taylor on the CLA’s website.
