Preventing theft on your farm during the holidays

FAST FACTS

Get a friend or neighbour to check up on your farm while you are away.

Ensure that all security equipment is working properly before you leave.

Inform your neighbourhood watch and armed response company of your plans.

If you’re considering going away over the December holidays, you may want to think again. Dr Florence Nherera-Chokuda, head of farmer support and development at the National Emergent Red Meat Producers’ Organisation, explains that theft of stock and other assets usually escalates from October until December, with high meat and food prices supporting this trend.

“Rather invite your family and friends to celebrate Christmas on the farm, and then take a break a week or two later in January, once things have settled. If you have no choice, try not to stay away for more than five days,” she