Here’s How We Keep Our Rural Property Safe

Security measures for rural properties differ significantly from those for typical suburban homes. Let’s explore some effective strategies to safeguard your rural property.

If you live on a rural property, especially one with substantial acreage, you might wonder how to secure such a vast area. Here are some practical tips to help you protect your property:

Why is rural property security important?

There are several compelling reasons to secure your rural property:

Unauthorized Gatherings: Long, secluded roads can attract individuals seeking a place for parties.

Hunters and Poachers: Some may trespass to hunt without permission.

Criminal Activity: Remote locations can be tempting targets for thieves.

Curiosity Seekers: People might venture down private roads out of sheer curiosity.

Transient Populations: Homeless individuals or groups might see your property as a potential campsite.

Post-Apocalyptic Concerns: In extreme scenarios, your property could attract unwanted attention.

Understanding the reasons behind the need for security is the first step. Here’s what you can do to enhance the safety of your rural property.

Tips for securing your rural property

Drawing from my own experience of securing a rural property spanning approximately 40 acres, here are some practical strategies I’ve implemented to enhance safety. My private road extends about a third of a mile, and while the buildings are not visible from the main road, it’s essential to remain vigilant.

Driveway Alarms

driveway alarm applications

With only one access road, I’ve found driveway alarms to be invaluable. If you have multiple access points, it’s wise to install alarms on each one. These devices alert you whenever a vehicle enters your road.

I use two eMACROS driveway alarms. The first is positioned further up the road, and the second is closer to the property. When the first alarm chimes, I listen for the second to determine if the vehicle intends to come all the way in. Typically, it’s just a delivery or a familiar visitor, but not always.

These alarms also provide significant peace of mind, especially at night, though they can be a bit bothersome if the snowplow arrives at 4 AM after a snowstorm!

Adequate lighting is a powerful deterrent for anyone attempting to enter your rural property at night. Here’s how I’ve used security lights to protect my property:

Multiple Security Lights

Adequate lighting is a powerful deterrent for anyone attempting to enter your rural property at night. Here’s how I’ve used security lights to protect my property:

It’s not enough to have just one light; more is better. Lighting up the night is a significant deterrent for anyone sneaking onto your property. I use a combination of solar motion lights and conventional AC-powered motion floodlights.

Driving down my rural private road at night, intruders are first surprised by a solar motion floodlight mounted on a tree. It’s unexpected because you’re in the woods, and suddenly, you’re bathed in light. You can be creative and place these lights almost anywhere.

I highly recommend the RAB Stealth motion floodlight. I’ve installed them on all sides of my home, on the garage/shop building, and even around my chicken coop, thanks to underground power lines.

If anyone attempts to approach my rural property at night, they’ll be illuminated along the way.

Enhancing security with cameras for rural properties

The options for security cameras are vast, with various features and price points. The choice depends on your specific requirements.

Personally, I want to monitor my property remotely and stay informed about any activity. My main security camera is an outdoor high-resolution (4K) dome camera, which records and alerts me in multiple ways when it detects movement.

For instance, if my driveway alarms go off while I’m in my office, I don’t need to get up. I can simply open an app on my phone to see what’s happening. More often than not, it’s just a UPS delivery.

Security cameras are a crucial component of rural property security, offering peace of mind and real-time information about any activity on your land.

Walk and Ride Your Property

selfsb b4I make it a habit to traverse my property on foot and by 4-wheeler. While some areas are nearly inaccessible due to dense forest, I cover as much ground as possible. My property includes mountainous terrain, open fields, and woods, making for diverse exploration.

Tracking Clues

I enjoy tracking and often look for animal tracks on my property. Over time, I’ve familiarized myself with the trails various animals use. However, discovering human tracks or signs of human activity is unexpected and a potential security concern. If you find such signs, it’s important to investigate why they’re there. Is it a security issue?

Signs to Watch For

Trash: Finding litter in a specific area could indicate unauthorized access.

Vehicle Tracks: Signs of other ATVs or vehicles can suggest intrusion.

Understanding Access Points

Beyond traditional security measures, it’s essential to understand the various ways people might approach your property, especially in a crisis scenario. While I have one main road in, I also consider other potential access points. Although dense forests, rivers, and swamps limit access on my property, each rural property is unique. Be aware of all possible entry points, even on foot, and allocate more resources to securing those areas.

Having a thorough understanding of your property’s layout and potential vulnerabilities allows you to develop a comprehensive security plan tailored to your specific needs.

Strategic Use of Signs

While I don’t go overboard with aggressive signs, I do employ some strategic signage. Here’s my rationale:

There are many types of “Keep Out” signs, each with varying levels of threat or intimidation. Personally, I prefer to avoid giving the impression that I’m overly aggressive. Instead, I adopt a more low-key approach, fitting in with and contributing to my local community.

Current Signage

I do have signs on hand for when I feel they are necessary. Currently, I use:

“24 Hour Video Surveillance” on the road.

“Video Security System” near the house.

These signs serve as excellent deterrents since no one with ill intentions wants to be caught on camera. This type of signage is practical and understandable for locals, promoting common-sense security without appearing hostile.

By using these subtle yet effective signs, I maintain security while preserving good relationships with my neighbors and the community.

The Role of a Security Dog

the role of a security dog

Regardless of the breed, any dog can act as a deterrent. Larger, more intimidating dogs might scare off intruders more effectively, but even smaller dogs can bark loudly enough to alert you to someone’s presence. Their acute hearing allows them to detect sounds long before you can.

My Experience

Years ago, I had a Mountain Cur, a breed known for its security capabilities. This dog was an exceptional guard dog, making it a great choice for preppers and homesteaders.

Recommended Dog Breeds for Rural Security

German Shepherd: Known for their intelligence, loyalty, and protective nature.

Rottweiler: Strong, confident, and fearless, making them excellent guard dogs.

Doberman Pinscher: Alert, fast, and formidable, they are great for security.

Belgian Malinois: Highly trainable and often used in police and military roles.

Bullmastiff: Large and protective, yet gentle with family members.

Mountain Cur: Versatile working dogs, excellent for rural settings.

Great Pyrenees: Great for larger properties, protective and good with livestock.

Australian Shepherd: Highly alert and excellent for both herding and guarding.

Airedale Terrier: Versatile and vigilant, good for both companionship and security.

Boxer: Energetic, loyal, and protective, good with families and security.

By choosing the right breed, you can enhance the security of your rural property while also gaining a loyal companion.

Drone for Security

I recently bought a DJI Mini 4 Pro drone, initially justifying the purchase for fun. However, it quickly proved valuable for security purposes. Launching it allows me to survey my property and surrounding areas with ease.

Benefits of a Security Drone

Surveillance: I can fly the drone to the main road or any other potential access points to see what’s happening.

Range: This particular drone can fly over a mile away, providing extensive coverage.

Live Feed and Recording: The drone offers real-time video streaming and can record footage for later review. This allows for detailed analysis on a larger screen.

Flight Time: The DJI Mini 4 Pro has a flight time of nearly 35 minutes, depending on usage.

Practical Considerations

Learning Curve: Operating a drone requires some practice, and there are FAA rules to follow.

Regulations: Drones under 0.55 pounds (250 grams) do not need FAA registration. The DJI Mini 4 Pro fits this category, making it a convenient option.

My 2 cents

A drone like the DJI Mini 4 Pro is a versatile and fun tool that adds an extra layer of security to your rural property. By regularly flying it, you can monitor your property effectively, ensuring you stay aware of any potential threats or activities.

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Security Gate

Many rural property owners, especially those with seasonal residences, install gates to control access. A gate is an obvious and effective way to keep vehicles out.

Benefits of a Security Gate

Access Control: A gate restricts unauthorized vehicles from entering your property.

Deterrence: Even a closed but unlocked gate can discourage most people from venturing down your road.

Convenience: A gate can be useful for day-to-day access if you’re willing to open and close it each time you come and go.

Considerations

Emergency Access: Ensure there’s a plan for emergency situations, such as a fire, where first responders need quick access. A locked gate could hinder their efforts.

Automation: For added convenience, consider an automated gate opener to avoid manually opening and closing the gate every time.

A security gate is a practical addition to your rural property, providing an extra layer of security by controlling vehicle access. With thoughtful planning, including provisions for emergencies, it can be an effective deterrent against unauthorized entry while maintaining ease of use for residents.

Firearms for Rural Living

firearms for rural living

If you live in a rural area, you likely own several guns. They are essential tools for various purposes and can also be enjoyed for sport. I use mine for both. With enough land, I have set up my own pistol range and a 100-yard rifle range. Shooting is a fun activity, although the cost of ammunition can be a downside. Thankfully, I stocked up before the recent shortages and price hikes.

Practical Uses

Varmint Control: Firearms are effective for managing pests that threaten crops or livestock.

Protecting Livestock: They are crucial for safeguarding animals like chickens from predators.

Hunting: Hunting is both a practical and recreational use for firearms on a rural property.

Weapons of Last Resort

While it may be uncomfortable to consider, having weapons for worst-case scenarios is important. This means being prepared to defend against human intruders if necessary. Many rural residents own at least one popular sporting rifle for this purpose.

Force Multipliers

For those who can afford it, investing in force multipliers can significantly enhance your defensive capabilities. Consider equipment like:

Helmet-Mounted Night Vision Devices (e.g.,NVG 2K): These allow you to see in low-light conditions.

Laser Illuminators (e.g., Holosun): These devices emit lasers that are visible through night vision, aiding in target acquisition.

Firearms are a crucial part of rural living, serving multiple practical purposes. Additionally, being prepared for worst-case scenarios with appropriate weapons and force multipliers can provide peace of mind and enhanced security.

Conclusion

250X250 V4Securing a rural property requires a blend of strategies to enhance safety. Effective measures include installing driveway alarms, security lights, surveillance cameras, and a security gate. Adding a dog provides both deterrence and companionship, while a drone offers aerial surveillance. Use signage wisely to avoid unnecessary tension, and consider weapons of last resort and force multipliers for extreme scenarios.

By integrating these elements thoughtfully, you can create a comprehensive security plan tailored to your property’s unique needs.

Suggested resources for preppers:

Empowering women with homestead security

If you see this plant when foraging, don’t touch it!

Survival Foods of the Native Americans

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