Farm crime warning as dark nights set in
Following the end of British summer time, Britain’s largest rural insurer is warning farmers to increase vigilance over rural crime.
This is because the longer nights provide thieves with more opportunities to strike at night and raid outbuildings, steal livestock and farm machinery.
More than three-quarters (74%) of crime affecting rural communities takes place during hours of darkness, according to NFU Mutual’s Rural Crime Survey.
In total it is estimated that just under 40% of all claims for theft made to NFU Mutual occur during the winter months, when there can be as much as eight extra hours of dusk/night-time light, compared to the summer which accounts for only around 11% of all theft claims.
The findings come from a survey of more than 300 NFU Mutual branch offices across the country and their claims experience.
Matthew Scott, chief claims manager at NFU Mutual, said: “Clearly longer hours of darkness can present greater opportunities for criminal activity, particularly in remote rural areas which may not benefit from as much lighting, passing traffic or general footfall in the evenings as urban settings.
“As the clocks change and nights lengthen, it will soon be the case that dusk has fallen while many people are still out at work, leaving their homes unoccupied during the first few hours of darkness.
“By taking simple steps to protect property, country dwellers can significantly reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim, and the vast majority should be able to enjoy a safe and secure winter.”
To help prevent crime affecting farming communities, NFU Mutual has released guidelines to help deter criminals.
- Leave selected lights and outdoor security lighting on during the day, as well as at night – especially if you are out during the day
- Keep all outbuildings locked when not in use
- Consider keeping geese or other animals that may serve as low-tech alarm systems
- Join a local neighbourhood or farm watch scheme
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