S.A.F.E  Security Tips

Below are some Security Tips from S.A.F.E that will help you reduce the chance of crime against you,  your premises or your horses, and if you do happen to be targetted how you can help the police track down the perpertrators

Security Checklist for your Premises;

STRANGERS:

  Consider why they are showing an interest in 
     horses, or your premises?
  Are they asking too many questions, wandering 
     around the yard?
  If more than one person, does one ask     
     questions whilst the other looks around?
  It does no harm to be vigilant and suspicious of 
     strangers visiting your premises!
  Above all, do not feel guilty about taking steps 
     to protect yourself, your horse and premises.

Remember you have a right to be there. But never put yourself in any danger.

RECORDS:

  Make it yard policy to keep good records of 
     any visitors and vehicles.
  Always record registration number, vehicle 
     description, unusual features.
  How many people:- could you describe them? 
     Descriptions are necessary because some
     vehicles will be showing a false number plate.

S.A.F.E. can supply you with an incident record pad.

ROUTINE:

  Often alter the yard routine. If your premises are 
     targeted, your routine will have been watched 
     over a period of time.
  If you are in a large yard, consider a rota for late
     evening checks.
  Take a torch and never go alone. 
  Always leave clear information as to your route
     and timing (and with whom you are going)

Never put yourself or others at risk.

INFORMATION:

  Never disclose information about yourself,
     horses, property etc.
  Keep all records in a safe place.
  Do not keep identity papers, freezemark
     certificates or passports with your animals.

INSURANCE:

  Insure all animals, property and vehicles.
  Check Policy carefully. Does it contain
     "new for old" on tack, or disclaimers?
  Some insurance may not be such good value
     as it first appears.
  Check with other horse owners how their
     Insurance Company dealt with a claim.
  Always take time to read the small print.

LOCKING UP / LOCKING OUT:

  Have a set routine for locking up.
  Make sure all in the yard are aware of this and
     importantly, always comply. 
  Check and double check before leaving.
  It is very easy to overlook something if you are
     in a hurry or distracted in any way.

VIGILANCE:

  Never say never! or, it will not happen to us.
  Always be aware of your surroundings: it costs
     nothing to be vigilant and could save you a
     great deal.
  Look at your premises as though you were a
     thief.
  Check all areas some will appear more vulnerable
     than others.  
  Could you improve anything?

Then do something about it!

For help in good crime prevention points, fill in the S.A.F.E. Yard assessments and ensure you are a winner not a loser in the coming year..

Tested.