The Ontario Federation of Agriculture [OFA] and Ontario Provincial Police [OPP] are highlighting the importance of farm security in a new video.
OFA Director Larry Davis said he already had cameras and motion detectors -- which set off alarms -- installed, when suspects broke into one of his buildings last December by kicking in a door.
Since then, he has embraced more new technology.
"I reinforced the door a little bit so it was harder to get in, plus I put on a keypad door lock," Davis said. "All of my employees have a code. They just type in the code and it lets them in the building. So, if you don't have the code, you're not getting in the building."
He also shared that he has installed tracking systems in equipment, which don't give off a signal unless prompted.
"It's well concealed in the ATV, so hopefully when people look they're not going to see it," Davis said.
Both organizations said farmers need to be aware of suspects casing properties in advance of a theft, sometimes using drones for surveillance.
"Every farm has an ATV, every farm has a pickup truck, every farm has tractors... and they're usually accessible. So, all it takes is somebody to know which building and they're gone," Davis said.
The OFA and OPP also recommend posting "No Trespassing" signs, installing gates and always staying vigilant to protect your farm from theft.
