KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Praedial Larceny Prevention Unit of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is reminding farmers that safety and security is important in the prevention of farm theft. 

As a means of reassuring members in the agricultural sector and the Jamaican society in general, the police have issued safety tips that may assist in protecting life, investments and property.

See the tips below:  

1. Record keeping

• Create or update your current list of assets and personal items, including vehicles, farm tools and other implements, crop value and number of animals owned.

2. Creating identity

• Ensure that special markings are placed on animals (branding, tattoo, tag) so that they can be identified easily in the event of theft. 

•  Keep a log of all animals and their branding number, tattoo or tag number.

 3. Proper lighting and bushing

• Ensure that your premises are properly lit and that trees or bushy areas are properly maintained so as to have clear visibility around the farm and reduce the possibility of people lurking in or around your premises.

4. Fencing and gates

• Fencing defines property boundaries and restricts access to people and animals that may trespass onto your property. ‘No trespassing’ and ‘beware of dog’ signs can be helpful and assist in maintaining privacy and security.

5. Alarm and warning systems

•       Having a dog around your farm is a type of alarm and early warning system that can help secure your farm.

•       Where possible, use security camera, video surveillance and other monitoring systems to reduce and prevent incidents of farm theft. 

•       Detection devices such as motion sensors, trip wires, sensor lights, panic buttons, and cow bells are useful warning tools that can assist to protect life and property.

 6. Build meaningful partnerships

•       The Farm Watch Program encourages partnership at the community level with farmers, community members, the police, and other stakeholders.

•      Maintain contact for your neighbours and community members.

7. Communication

• Know the number for your local community development committee members, RADA, JAS, and other stakeholders.

• It is also important to know and document the numbers for your local police station, police 119 emergency number or crime stop at 311 to report farm theft or any emergency.