9. PHYSICAL SAFETY MEASURES
 
Safety measures will not necessarily ward off a farm attack. However, they can slow down an attack and make it more difficult to carry out an attack.

The following safety measures can be implemented:
9.1. A fence around the house with gates that can be locked is better than a high wall because of the advantage of visibility. An expensive high or electrical fence is not essential but it will make access to the house difficult. The main aim of the fence, first, is to delay the attack and, second, to keep dogs around the house. Razor wire, barbed wire, empty tins or bells can be attached to the fence as added early-warning mechanism. Gates must be locked at all times.
9.2. Every outer door must be fitted with a security gate and a sturdy lock. Keep security gates locked at all times. Burglar-proofing must cover al the windows. 
9.3. A security gate inside the house that separates the sleeping quarters from the rest of the house could prove vital in the event of penetration of the house. The emergency communication system and fire extinguishers should preferably be installed near the sleeping quarters. 
9.4. The following devices prevent easy access to a house: 
9.4.1. Burglar bars
9.4.2. Security doors
9.4.3. Double fencing
9.4.4. Security gates
9.4.5. Razor wire
9.4.6. Bars behind doors
9.4.7. Additional locks on doors
9.4.8. Reinforced doors
9.4.9. Peepholes in the doors
9.4.10. Safety chains on doors
9.4.11. An intercom between the house and the gate, front door or garage 
9.5. Firearms must be readily accessible at all times and must, if possible be carried on the person. Ensure that weapons are serviceable. A person who carries a weapon must know how to handle it and must be prepared to use it. 
9.6. A siren/alarm on the roof and a few alarm switches in the house can be heard over a long distance. It can be used if other communication methods fail. An alarm/siren must be tested regularly to ensure it can be heard over a long distance. The alarm must warn the occupants that the house has been penetrated when they are not at home to prevent an ambush when they return home. A light on the roof or a more expensive device that is linked to a cellular phone would be a good investment.
9.7. The following are examples of alarm systems:
9.7.1. Mechanical and/or electrical systems
9.7.2. Improvised systems:
9.7.2.1. Tins containing stones that are strung together
9.7.2.2. Pieces of iron that are strung together
9.7.2.3. Gravel under windows, on pathways and around the house
9.7.2.4. Obstacles that make a noise when moved
9.7.3 Animals:
9.7.3.1. Dogs
9.7.3.2. Geese
9.7.3.3. Ostriches
9.8. Security lights that are connected to a light-sensitive switch on the outside of the house is a good way to improve security on a farm or smallholding. The lights must be directed away from the house but the occupants should be able to use the windows without being visible from outside. Shadows and blind spots must be taken into consideration. 
9.9. Areas of a 20 m X 80 m radius near gates, farm roads, T-junctions where farm roads meet main roads and foot paths must be cleared regularly to prevent ambushes.