Tractor and equipment theft is a bigger problem than most people realize. Or that most dealers would care to admit. The equipment is expensive. Plus, it doesn’t present many challenges to being stolen in its own right. That means owners must take extra steps to protect their investments and prevent the theft of their tractors and other equipment. These are some steps you can take.

1. Disconnect the battery. It’s a small thing that might take only a second or two to troubleshoot and solve, but because it isn’t something everyone is doing, it might be the difference in thieves moving on in hopes of finding an easier target.
2. Install a battery disconnect that requires a key. Even more effective is to install a battery disconnect that requires a key to unlock. Most thieves are looking for targets that are fast to load and abscond with. This delay adds time to their efforts they aren’t looking for.
3. Place a chain on the steering wheel or tire spokes. This serves as a physical deterrent as well as a physical one. When thieves see the chains they know it will not be an easy mark and may elect to move on to a different tractor or piece of equipment. For most thieves, the goal is an easy target. The more you can do to make your tractors and equipment look like a hassle the less likely you’ll be the target of their attention.
4. Install a fuel line shut off. While this isn’t a visual deterrent for thieves, it is something they aren’t likely prepared for. Most thieves are prepared for things like fuses being removed and bring their own keys along for the ride. Fuel line shutoffs aren’t immediately visible but cause substantial delays in starting the equipment to drive it off that may encourage them to choose another mark.
5. Install GPS tracking. GPS tracking for equipment, tractors, mowers, etc. may not prevent the theft from occurring. It does, however, greatly increase the odds that your equipment will be recovered intact. This is especially the case if you install real-time GPS tracking.
6. Buy adequate insurance. Finally, regardless of all the precautions in the world, you cannot always prevent a determined thief or vandal. Your final action to protect your investment in tractors and other equipment is to purchase the appropriate insurance coverage to protect your asset.

You put a lot of blood, sweat, and perhaps a few tears into securing the right equipment to tackle your tough jobs. Protect that investment with the six steps above.

The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) implemented a short-term study on local bobcats last year. The goal of the project was to further understand how wild bobcat populations interact with their environment and how they are adapting to human populations.

In the fall of last year, teams tagged 50 different bobcats with GPS tracking devices throughout Connecticut, and they marked their ears with yellow tags. Field experts collected information about each bobcat including their estimated age, sex and weight.

These cats are crucial for the environment, and researchers believe that about 1,000 live in the state. Experts confirm that bobcats have more of an effect on smaller animal species than any other predator in the area.

In Connecticut, bobcats are an apex predator that consumes raccoons, chickens, rabbits, squirrels, chipmunks, skunks and other small animals. Their preference for squirrels oftentimes leads them to suburban neighborhoods, so it’s important for residents to be on the lookout for these animals.

Soon, the first 50 collars will fall off the animals, and biologists are expected to reattach at least 20. Their data project will continue until at least 2020.

How You Can Help

This study has collected important data that researchers will continue to analyze. The GPS tracking units attached to these cats are pre-programmed to fall off the animals on August 1, 2018.

 This measure was implemented to ensure the animals were not harmed by the collar over time.

 Researchers are asking everyone who locates one of these collars to contact the Wildlife Division at 860-424-3045. Individuals who find the collars can also email using deep.ctwildlife@ct.gov, and they will make arrangements to retrieve it.

These collars will still be transmitting their location, so authorities will be attempting to retrieve them over the coming months.

DEEP is additionally attempting to research the diet of modern-day bobcats. Biologists are asking anyone who comes across a road-killed bobcat to call the Wildlife Division at 860-424-3011. Biologists will then collect the animal and examine its stomach contents.

DEEP gives their sincerest thanks to Connecticut residents who have continued to help with their continued studies. Witness reports are crucial to the program, and the research would be impossible without hard-working volunteers.

Technology is evolving fast. Faster than some people would like. However, it’s evolving in a way that makes life easier for many, including those who are aging.

Today’s aging population is very active and seeks to maintain independence as long as possible. Technology can help. Especially if you take advantage of some of these technologies that are particularly useful for seniors.

Remote Patient Monitoring Systems

These systems are transforming healthcare as we know it. They allow patients to monitor certain health aspects from home with digital reporting, daily, to the patient’s doctor. This includes things like weight, blood pressure, blood glucose levels, heart rate, international normalized ratio (INR), etc. Home monitoring systems test these things at home and send the information to physicians via wireless or cellular networks.

Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) Tracking

Perhaps one of the most essential technologies available in a world that is constantly changing, GPS allows people of all ages to find their away around growing towns and new cities alike. Whether you travel for fun or you’re visiting friends and family in far off locations, GPS can be instrumental in helping you find your way around in unfamiliar territory.

Not only that, but GPS tracking for elderly people provides great peace of mind for loved ones who worry that their senior family member may wander off or get lost due to memory difficulties.

Skype

The quintessential communication tool of the new millennium, Skype allows you to keep up with friends and family near and far. It’s quite versatile, useful on computers, laptops, tablets, iPads, iPhones, iPods, and Android devices alike, you can keep up with what is happening with all your loved ones with the video communication service we know as Skype.

Smart Watches

Smart Watches replace a variety of older technologies in one sleek, impressive device. Your smart watch can operate as a medicine reminder, helping you keep track of all the pills you need to take at different times of the day, a fitness tractor, and, soon, will be able to detect falls. They sync with your mobile phone, allowing you to call for help if you ever do find that you’ve fallen and need assistance or during any other medical emergency – without having to find your phone.

As you can see, there are many ways technology can help you not only maintain your independence, but also enhance your quality of life. These technological tools are designed to improve your health, facilitate communication with friends and family, and allow you to remain mobile and independent for a long, healthy, and rich social life. Put them to use today and see what a difference they can make in your life and your lifestyle as you age.