Mounties offer tips during Farm Safety Week

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on March 14, 2026.

Sunday marks the beginning of Agricultural Safety Week in Canada and RCMP are encouraging rural residents to take proactive steps as preparations begin for the upcoming farming season.

“As producers begin equipment maintenance, field preparation and spring planning, farmyards may see increased activity,” said Sgt. Joe Schmidt. “At the same time valuable machinery and tools may be left accessible or unattended.”

Rural properties are an attractive target for thieves due to their remote location and likelihood of high-value agricultural equipment on site, according to police.

RCMP urges rural residents to take proactive measures early in the season to reduce the risk of property-related theft, including the following crime prevention tips:

– Lock up combines, tractors and other equipment when not in use;

– Always remove keys from tractors, combines, ATV’s and other machinery;

– Use wheel locks, hitch locks or immobilizers on larger equipment;

– Lock gates and fences, even in remote areas;

– Store all tools, fuel and chemicals in secure, well-lit buildings;

– Instal motion-activated lightning or cameras on outbuildings;

– Clearly mark equipment with serial numbers or farm ID to aid in any recovery efforts if stolen;

– Consider tamper-proof markers or paint codes that are hard to remove;

– Actively work with neighbours to watch for unusual activity in the area and report suspicious activity to RCMP.