Martin Banks 12.17.24
You moved into a remote area for peace of mind and to live life on your terms, but intruders and thieves don’t keep to only cities. Preparation is the best way to ensure you and your family’s safety, and to protect your property. Explore these 9 ways to secure what you love as isolated homesteaders need to protect themselves and not wait for the cavalry.
1. Isolated Homesteaders – Fencing
Ensure your property is fully fenced. If your homestead is too large to fence entirely, then fence the yard area so it’s secure against regular foot traffic. Install locking gates, and if you have Wi-Fi connectivity, you can consider a digital lock that alerts you if they open. Electrified fencing is a great way to keep livestock in check and deter casual thieves.
2. Isolated Homesteaders – Motion-Sensitive Lights
Anyone with nefarious intentions will likely avoid a well-lit property, and a light that suddenly switches on will send them scurrying away. Assess your home base’s nighttime profile to identify hiding spots and easy access routes you should brighten up. Motion-sensitive LED lights are bright and reduce energy costs, and are perfect for use with a camera system.
3. Isolated Homesteaders – CCTV Cameras
Anyone on a remote homestead must install closed-circuit security cameras. They let you see your property without risking life and limb by going outside. This way, you can assess the danger and take appropriate steps, such as arming yourself or rousing your family to defend your home. IP or analog cameras are also ideal, as they have wireless variations, which is perfect for a dynamic or challenging installation area.
Record the footage around the clock and back it up to cloud storage so you have documentation of what happens when you’re not home. CCTV cameras are an excellent source of evidence if you ever need to take legal action against a perpetrator.
4. Isolated Homesteaders – Signage
Pretty welcome signs are for friends and family. A board warning a thief that they’re entering a gun-protected property and that CCTV cameras are in action may be enough to make them reconsider.
5. Isolated Homesteaders – Guard Dogs
A traditional safety measure that’s proven worthwhile is to keep trained guard dogs on your homestead. They’ll alert you to trouble with their barking, and they’re also there to back you up when intruders try to make an ingress into your property.
Anatolian Shepherds are popular choices for protecting livestock and property. Getting to over 150 pounds at their biggest, they’re sure to make any trespassers think twice.
6. Isolated Homesteaders – Safety-First Plants
Surround your homestead with a wisely chosen yard. Plant thorny bushes below windows to deny access and remove low-hanging branches from tall trees for increased visibility. Coating pathways with pea gravel helps you and your dogs hear any approaching intruders.
7. Isolated Homesteaders – Solid Windows
Windows are easy access points, so fortify yours by installing shatterproof or bulletproof glass, or coating existing windows with protective film. Intruders may throw stones at your windows, and a tear-resistant film can stop them from gaining entry.
Burglar guards on ground-floor windows are also an excellent option. If you want to preserve your view, choose PVC burglar bars you can see through.
8. Isolated Homesteaders – Strong Locks
When your locks show signs of damage, it’s time to upgrade them. If someone unwelcome manages to get onto your property, they’re vital pieces of defense. Locks should stop intruders from getting in, but if they manage to, you’ll have had time to arm yourself and get everyone safe. Of course, they also keep your valuables secure when you’re not home to stop the crime.
Remember to lock up your power tools and heavy machinery, as well. Side buildings are excellent targets because criminals can avoid disturbing anyone and make off with some expensive goods.
9. Isolated Homesteaders – A Safety Room
Things are replaceable, but family is not, so plan what steps you all can take if there’s ever cause to flee or hide. A good investment is a safety room with a reinforced door, food, water, weapons and ammunition. Run a few drills to train everyone on how to get to it, who to call in case of an emergency and how to reduce panic.
Make Your Homestead Safe
Living in a rural area means the security burden is yours. Don’t be caught napping — take action to make your home safe and protect what you love most. Start with the protective measures you can afford, like a dog, lighting and effective yard care, and save for the more costly ones as you go.
