Superintendent Steve Fosher, Head of the National Counter Terrorism Security Office, would like to remind farmers and growers that at this time of year, particularly when large amounts of granular fertiliser are being delivered and stored, to consider security to prevent it from falling into the wrong hands.
‘Regardless of how much fertiliser you store, it is important you consider measures to prevent it from being stolen and misused by potential terrorists as the threat level to the UK remains at Substantial – An Attack is Likely.’
The National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO), together with partners including Red Tractor and FIAS have put together a ‘Fertiliser Security Five Point Plan.’
- Wherever possible use a Fertiliser Industry Assurance Scheme (FIAS) approved supplier.
- Wherever possible keep in a secure area such as a building or sheeted away from public view.
- Carry out regular stock checks and report any loss to the police immediately (call 101).
- Avoid leaving fertiliser in a field overnight – never leave fertiliser in a field for a long period of time.
- Remember it is illegal to sell ammonium nitrate without the correct documentation.
This plan highlights five key areas for farmers and growers to follow when using and storing Nitrogen based fertilisers.
The key objective is to prevent your fertiliser being stolen in the first instance. Whilst there is no such thing as absolute security, there are some simple measures that can significantly reduce the likelihood of theft. Storing your fertiliser in an enclosed secure building or covering fertiliser with a tarpaulin in an open-sided barn may seem basic but can be effective.
For practical, cost-effective security advice, follow the link below:
Secure your fertiliser | Protect UK or copy the header https://www.protectuk.police.uk/advice-and-guidance/security/secure-your-fertiliser into your search engine.
This website provides practical guidance about securing your fertiliser with a range of security measures that can be tailored to your individual farming needs. It is recommended that farms adopt a balanced mix of integrated security measures incorporating a combination of both physical security and supporting procedures.
Superintendent Steve Fosher says, ‘It is hoped that by following this advice we will not only prevent it being stolen, which causes a financial loss to farmers and growers, but ultimately restricts the availability of nitrate-based fertilisers for use by terrorist groups within the UK. We all have a role to play to help prevent terrorism, if you think someone is acting suspiciously around your farm, contact your local Police, the Anti-Terrorist hotline 0800 789 321 or online at ACT: Report suspicious activity | Protect UK . If you Suspect it – Report it.’
In an emergency always dial 999.