Media Release
March 10, 2026
Strathmore RCMP promote equipment security during National Farm Safety Week (March 14–20)
Strathmore, Alta. – In recognition of National Farm Safety Week, March 14 to 20, the Strathmore RCMP are encouraging rural residents and agricultural operators to take proactive steps to secure machinery, tools, fuel, and outbuildings as preparations begin for the upcoming farming season.
As producers begin equipment maintenance, field preparation, and spring planning, farmyards may see increased activity. At the same time, valuable machinery and tools may be left accessible or unattended. Rural properties can be attractive targets for theft due to their remote locations and the high value of agricultural equipment. By taking preventative measures early in the season, rural property owners can significantly reduce the risk of property-related crime and help protect their livelihood.
The Strathmore RCMP offer the following crime prevention tips:
- Lock up combines, tractors, and other equipment when not in use.
- Always remove keys from tractors, combines, ATVs, and other machinery.
- Activate GPS tracking technology if available on equipment.
- Use wheel locks, hitch locks, or immobilizers on larger equipment.
- Lock gates and fences, even in remote areas.
- Store tools, fuel, and chemicals in secure, well-lit buildings.
- Install motion-activated lighting or cameras on outbuildings.
- Clearly mark equipment with serial numbers or farm ID to aid in recovery if stolen.
- Consider tamper-proof markers or paint codes that are hard to remove.
- Work with neighbours to watch for unusual activity in the area. Report suspicious activity as soon as able to police.
- Consider using large hose clamps at three to six feet intervals to secure copper wire on farm pivots to discourage theft.
“Implementing these suggestions and reporting suspicious activity can go a long way to prevent and deter criminal activity in our rural areas. Reporting criminal activity is also important to help identify crime trends and areas to focus deployment of police resources.” – Staff Sergeant Mark Wielgosz – Detachment Commander Strathmore-Langdon RCMP
For more information on rural safety tips us on Facebook @RCMPinAlberta and on X @RCMPAlberta.
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