Wiltshire Police is warning farmers across the county to be on their guard following a number of thefts of GPS units in August.
These thefts were carried out on three farms in North Wiltshire with more thefts taking place just over the border in Gloucestershire.
Our advice to prevent thefts of GPS devices includes:
- Removing GPS guidance receivers, aerials and antenna globes from tractors when not in use and keep them in a securely locked place whenever possible
- Consider fitting security tethers or brackets to stop units being removed
- Mark your postcode on GPS units – either with a UV pen, engraving tool or a forensic marking system
- Store machinery in locked buildings where possible
- Where locking machines isn’t an option, consider fitting mains or battery-operated alarms to cover around the perimeter of areas where machines are stored
- CCTV and intruder alarms will deter most thieves, but make sure they are checked regularly to ensure they work when you need them and they are placed where they won’t be triggered with animals
- Record machinery serial numbers and photograph kit to help police identify stolen items and increase the chances of them being recovered.
- Making sure your equipment has the latest updates including a PIN login.
Detective Sergeant Darren Penny said: “We’re currently investigating a number of GPS thefts throughout the Wiltshire where both receivers and screens have been removed from a number of tractors. We know that a gang of thieves is targeting farms because they think security will be lax at the busiest time of the year.
“The thefts are regularly costing farmers thousands alongside the inconvenience to get these systems replaced.
“Whilst in the full swing of harvest (between the breaks in the weather), this would be an ideal opportunity to remind farmers the importance to lock away their GPS systems overnight.
“We appreciate that you are finishing late in the evening and starting early to progress harvest, but I would urge you to take just a few moments to remove these kits and lock them away overnight.”
