Improved security needed to combat rural crime in East Midlands says NFU Mutual

New research from large rural insurer NFU Mutual suggests rural crime is on the increase in the East Midlands and it is advising people who live and work in the countryside to improve their security measures to help them avoid becoming victims of rural crime.

The in-depth national survey is based on the claims experience of more than 300 NFU Mutual branches located in rural towns and villages throughout the UK. In the East Midlands, 73% of agents reported rural crime in the area had increased compared to the same period in 2009.

Commenting on the survey results, John Kenny, Chief Claims Manager for NFU Mutual, said: “It’s disappointing to see that rural crime is on the increase and that rural homes and businesses have become a source of rich pickings for thieves. NFU Mutual is part of the fabric of rural life and deals with thousands of rural theft claims every year, so we are well aware of the personal and financial implications of this type of theft and we are liaising with the Police at a national level to work together to disrupt criminal activity”.

“While we aim to make our claims procedures hassle free, it’s often the loss of personal possessions or having to make do without vital machinery which proves to be the biggest headache for our customers. Thi s year ’s survey highl ight s the importance of good security measures and vigilance in the battle against rural crime.” Based on the number and frequency of items stolen, Land Rovers, tractors and quad bikes have topped the East Midlands’ list of most stolen items.

Over the last two years there has been a significant increase in the number of tractors being stolen ‘to order’ often for immediate export from channel ports to destinations including Africa, Eastern Europe and the Middle East.

The survey also highlighted a number of emerging trends, demonstrating the changing nature of rural crime – from sporadic incidences of opportunist thefts to highly organised thefts relying on detailed surveillance and planning.

Strip And Ship
These vehicles are being taken from fields, driveways and car parks and quickly stored in warehouses, where they are often stripped down to their component parts and shipped overseas to meet the demand for parts.

Lunchtime Looters
Sneaky thieves are pouncing when farmers and gardeners return to the house for lunch, searching unlocked tool workshops and sheds for chain saws, hedge-trimmers and other expensive power tools.

Hide And Seek
Where thieves suspect tractors, quad bikes or motor vehicles are fitted with tracker devices they will often hide them in a remote area to see if the item is recovered by the police. If, within a couple of days, the stolen item has not been recovered thieves can be pretty confident it does not have a tracker device fitted.

Going, Going, Gone
Power tools and riding tack have proven to be highly desirable for thieves in the East Midlands as they are portable and easy to sell on. Research suggests many of these items are often sold on at car boot sales and on internet auction sites.

Security Measures To Help Combat Rural Crime

Vehicles
· Remove keys and secure when unattended
· Use security lighting in yards and driveways
· Have the registration number etched on vehicle windows
· Consider CESAR security marking and/or immobilises

Homes
· Install an alarm system accredited by UKAS
· When installing alarm systems use a certified installer from NSI or SSAIB
· Fit and use insurance approved (BS3621:2004) security locks
· Fit and use window security locks on ground floor
· Consider re-sitting easily accessible tanks to better protected areas
· Use Smart Water to mark valuable possessions
· Fit security heavy-duty padlocks to garages and outbuildings
· Don’t leave valuables on show
· Store and secure ladders and tools out of sight
· Set timers for lights and radios when you’re out
· Consider outside security lighting

For more information on security advice please visit
www.nfumutual.co.uk