How to Choose the Right Security System for Your Farm

Protecting a farm can be difficult due to its large land size and remote location, and often intruders can take advantage of this vulnerability.

While you may not be able to always keep a constant eye on your farm, having an effective security system will give you the peace of mind you need, without being on the farm itself.

There are many different security systems available, which is why it’s crucial to think about what you want to get out of your security system such as the location you want security cameras placed at, the position (hidden or visible), whether you want a camera to capture high resolution images or faster reaction time. These factors will help you select the right security system for your farm.  

Farms require durable outdoor cameras which will withstand all weather conditions and insect swarms during Summer. Most outdoor cameras have a waterproof case which protects them from the elements.

Some important things to consider: 

• Power: 
  • AA batteries. (Best for frequently visited/occupied farms). 
  • Rechargeable battery packs for battery-powered cameras.
  • Ultra-low power consumption (a mix of both battery-powered and solar-powered cameras). 
  • Solar-powered. (Good for remote farms which may not have frequent visitors). Solar panels have built in batteries which means cameras will still run even after multiple days with no sun. 
• Wi-Fi: Farms with Wi-Fi connectivity will be able to use wireless cameras which are easier to set up. Properties that have no Wi-Fi connectivity will need to have wired cameras.
  • Dual-mode Wi-Fi or PoE (Power over Ethernet) allow for 24/7 monitoring. 
  • Having Wi-Fi allows footage to be sent directly to your device for surveillance, while wired cameras have an SD card 
• Motion sensors: Your cameras should be equipped with motion activated sensors which means the camera will capture footage every time it senses movement.
• Trigger time: The trigger time refers to how fast the camera can capture an image, the faster the trigger time the more footage the camera can capture. The trigger time between movements can be delayed on some cameras.
• Night vision: Cameras which are equipped with night vision for 24-hour monitoring are specially designed as a ‘black flash’ camera so there’s no red light to alert intruders to their existence. Images can be taken in complete darkness thanks to the infrared LED technology. 
• GPS: Cameras with GPS capabilities can be useful in the event of property equipment being stolen. Your device can be used to transmit a GPS location and will inform you when your stolen property is on the move. 
• Security footage: Footage from the camera should be easily accessed on any device, whether you’re on the farm or at another location. 
• Position: Deciding the position you want your cameras in will help you determine how many cameras you need. Placing them at the entrance to your farm, the fence line or any sheds and barns will ensure that your farm is well monitored. 

• Sensor lights: Sensor lights play a valuable role in farm security by making sure your land is well illuminated, especially in valuable areas such as around livestock, machinery, etc.
• Signage: Having signs that promote the use of a security system on your farm may deter intruders from entering your property. 

Effective security systems are an integral part of farm management, you want that peace of mind knowing your land, livestock, equipment and employees are well protected and monitored 24/7.

Don’t forget to do some research before purchasing your security system!