Our little town of 1900 has been the scene of some opportunistic thefts and robberies recently. Mostly stupid people leaving garage doors open and lawnmowers laying around, although they have been doing that since 1856, it's just become a problem lately.
I am removed from the town by 1/4 mile or more of dirt road that goes through a pasture, bordered by barbed wire. Anyone who comes to my house can be seen from way off, and the rest of the town just about can see when anyone comes up here on top the hill. We have two dogs, one a corgi that just goes ballistic when he hears things outside. The other is a dumb old Lab mix, but she will follow the corgi closely like, "It looks dangerous, you better go first." They are good alarms.
I have weapons in different areas, as we have two acres. Everything from squirrel shot for invading squirrels to 00 buck to 9mm to .357 Magnum. I would not hesitate to put a warning shot near anyone on the property and not coming up the road. Except for the water and power people, that is, and around here, Mormon missionaries. But they all come up the road, and not over the back fence.
I want to get a security system. Mainly loud alarms that will sound if anyone opens a gate or door, and a light that will then come on. I have looked at x10.com and they have a large selection. Not sure if I want the whole enchilada with cameras and all, but may do it, as they are cheap and recorders are dirt cheap and can be set up to only run when activated.
What measures do you guys take? I really think the loud sirens and lights would be the cheapest best way to go. I'd have to hook them to gates and doors and such, as we have a lot of critters running around here all the time.
I have also started putting up stuff more than before and now all six trailers have ball locks on them. I know there's only so much you can do, but I think I can do a little more.
Steve