Ranger Tips
TSCRA Special Ranger Tips: Keep That Gate Locked! I
Larry Hand TSCRA Special Ranger
t doesn’t matter your type of operation, where you keep
your cattle or what material your fences are made of: ev- eryone has at least one gate. The particulars of how that gate is secured are subject to a lot of discussion and maybe a foot or two of baling wire or chain-link. What type of lock — or
whether you use a lock at all — is also another topic for serious debate, but Texas and Southwestern Cattle Rais- ers Association (TSCRA) Special Rangers advise keep- ing gates secured to prevent theft and deter trespassers. TSCRA Special Ranger Larry Hand, District 13 in far
East Texas, recommends getting the best lock you can afford. “However, a cheap chain can be defeated easier than the best lock,” he says. “Thieves will usually look for simple and quick. A good heavy chain could make them think twice and move along.” Hand also says that combination locks can usually
be defeated more easily than keyed locks, but there is a time and place for both. Be careful with whom you’re supplying keys or combinations. In addition, if you’re unsure who has keys or combinations, change the locks to restrict access, especially to properties you can’t keep a close eye on or one that has had numerous visitors over the years. “If you’re using a string of locks or have more than
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one because of multiple-use or oil and gas purposes, take notice if a new lock appears,” Hand advises. “It could be someone trying to sneak in their own lock so they can come back to steal something.” Hand also reminds folks not to forget about locking
barns, tack rooms and trailers. Thieves don’t want to stick around too long, and keeping your equipment and tack locked up could make the difference in how much time and effort they’ll invest. “Locks may not keep all the bad guys out, but a cut
lock gives law enforcement a timeline of when you were victimized, based on your observations,” he said. “If a thief or trespasser has cut your lock or chain, leave it for the investigating deputy or special ranger. How and with what it was defeated can be useful informa- tion in the investigation.” Hand also advises that if you have a remote gate
that is a source of ongoing trouble, try monitoring the location with a battery- or solar-operated game cam- era. Some models are able to send pictures by email or text when movement is detected or the gate is opened. Locks will keep out honest folks and some outlaws,
but they are only one component of ranch security. Displaying blue TSCRA posted signs, taking a herd count regularly and branding cattle and horses are other well-tested methods of theft prevention. Don’t make it an easy payday for thieves by skimping on security. Consistent use of quality locks by vigilant owners will go a long way to keeping you and your property theft-free.❚
January 2017 The Cattleman 49
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