Modern farm machinery is very expensive. Farm tractors, combines, and other equipment that are not locked or have the ignition keys left in them are very vulnerable to theft and vandalism. This can be particularly true when they are parked in a remote field or an abandoned farmstead.
Unsecured machinery is an open invitation to vandals who may want to cause damage and have some fun with the equipment. It is often a crime of opportunity. There have been situations where unauthorized people have started the engine on farm equipment and driven it in dangerous and damaging ways, causing thousands of dollars worth of damage to the equipment as well as to other property.
Always keep farm machinery secure from malicious activity by removing keys and locking cabs. Keep the equipment in protected locations when not in use, preferably not in remote fields or uninhabited farmyards.
For more security tips, see our Farm Security Checklist
