ATV theft
Throughout Scotland ATV (all Terrain Vehicle) thefts are one of the major problems on farms. It is not uncommon for bikes to be stolen in batches, usually with local gangs targeting farms in a neighbourhood. So always keep in close contact with neighbours - mobile phones are ideal for texting neighbours if any strange vans or vehicles are spotted.
Most farmers are now fully aware that these bikes must be locked with keys removed for their insurance to be valid, but many farmers never consider additional factors which may be equally effective at reducing the inconvenience of a theft by making it as difficult as possible.
Examples include Additional security - Every obstruction, whether this be gates, locks or even a barking collie will be enough to move some thieves on looking for an easier target.
In one case the thieves tried to lift the bike right over a car. After being disturbed they ran off leaving the bike. Whilst undeterred in this instance, had they been able to take the bike straight out of the shed they would have had time to make off with it.
Fit security devices - Irrespective of whether your insurer allows a discount or not, the cost of the inconvenience and lost productivity following a theft means that the fitting cost is easily justifiable.
In many local cases bikes have also been hidden in local forests or remote areas, before being sold on. One bike was found 2 months after the theft in the hill forest deep in the trees about a mile from the farm!
Tracking System
We recommend an immobiliser system for farm vehicles that costs in the region of £150 per vehicle along with a tracking system at a cost of some £250. Click for more details of our Farm Vehicle Tracker & Immobiliser Offers