Rural Crime Has Increased Across England and Wales: How Can You Secure Your Property?

Living in rural areas has undeniable charm – peace, quiet, and stunning scenery. But recent statistics show a rise in rural burglary, leaving many feeling vulnerable. According to the National Farmers Union (NFU) Mutual’s 2023 Rural Crime Report, the cost of rural theft in the UK shot up by a staggering 22% last year. This translates to a hefty £49.5 million impacting farms, businesses, and homes across the countryside.

Here at Arlo, we’re committed to empowering rural residents with the knowledge and market's best outdoor surveillance cameras and security solutions you need for peace of mind. This blog post will serve as your guide, packed with practical tips and checklists for securing your home, farm, or business in rural areas.

The NFU Mutual report for rural crime 2023 highlights a concerning shift in rural crime. Opportunistic thieves are no longer the main culprits. Highly organised criminal gangs now target high-value items, often for international resale. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most commonly stolen items:

• Farm machinery and equipment. Tractors, quad bikes (ATVs) and trailers are particularly attractive due to their high worth and global demand. The report indicates a 29% rise in agricultural vehicle theft, costing a mind-boggling £11.7m in 2022.
• Livestock. Sheep were a major target in 2022, with thefts often involving large numbers of animals, causing farmers significant financial and emotional distress.
• Fuel. Diesel and heating oil thefts have surged, impacting farms and homes, especially during colder months.
• GPS equipment. The sophisticated technology used in tractors and harvesters is a growing target, with thefts doubling in the first four months of 2023 alone compared to 2022.

While no security system is foolproof, installing a high-quality outdoor camera with monitor and lights can significantly deter rural criminals. Here’s what to consider when choosing suitable farm cameras for your needs.

With remote access features, you can monitor your property from anywhere. You can view live footage, receive alerts, and even control the cameras remotely using your smartphone or computer. Arlo’s Go 2 SIM outdoor security camera is the most versatile camera in the range, and it can be set up and connected anywhere, even in the most remote locations.

Today’s innovative night vision farm cameras allow you to see clearly, even in complete darkness. Consider Arlo’s floodlight security camera, which illuminates the surrounding area with 3000-lumen LEDs brighter than car headlights and records in 2K resolution simultaneously.

Opt for weatherproof cameras that withstand rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. Arlo’s Pro 5 wire-free security camera offers 2K HDR video, integrated spotlights, and two-way audio for clear communication—all while being weatherproof!

Read more about ​how to choose the best farm security camera in our comprehensive guide.

Here at Arlo, we understand that rural security extends beyond security cameras. Here’s a checklist to get you started:

Well-lit properties with clear views from the road are less appealing to criminals. Install outdoor security lights with motion sensors to deter nighttime activity. Consider getting a camera with a powerful light included, such as Arlo’s cutting-edge floodlight outdoor security camera.

Ensure sheds, barns, and garages are properly secured with strong locks and deadbolts. Consider using security shutters or bars on windows for added protection.

When not in use, store tractors, quad bikes, and other equipment in a secure building. Invest in immobilising devices like wheel clamps or hitch locks. Security marking your equipment with a unique ID can also deter theft and aid recovery.

Maintain secure fencing around fields and pastures—double-check gates and enclosures regularly for signs of tampering. Consider using electronic tagging systems for your animals.

Install secure locks on fuel tank lids. Locate tanks above ground for better visibility, and consider using alarmed cages for additional protection.

Join or establish a neighbourhood watch scheme to connect with your rural community and share information about suspicious activity.

Remember, you’re not alone! By working together and implementing these security measures, rural communities can deter crime and create a safer environment for everyone. You should report any suspicious activity or crimes, no matter how minor, to the police. This will help build a bigger picture of criminal activity in your area.

At Arlo, we understand the unique security challenges faced by rural residents. Our best CCTV camera systems are designed to deliver exceptional performance, even in remote locations. With weatherproof cameras, night vision, and remote access, your property stays secure, no matter the place or time of day.