Rant and lessons

[JC5123]

I put this here, because I feel that while this was an innocent misunderstanding, it also constitutes a security breach.

Because of some sort of confusion our propane provider came onto our property this morning to fill our tank. (It was just filled a month ago and we have yet to open the valve) The problem came in the fact that instead of following the (marked) road to the tank, they started opening gates and driving straight into our inner fences. They weren't closing gates and when they reached the third one, nearly let our horses out.

Fortunately my (armed) fiancee was home and called me as soon as they breached the first gate, thinking maybe I had called them. When I told her that they shouldn't be there, she immediately confronted them and stopped them before they could open the last gate.

It turned out they were new drivers and had gotten the wrong address. She still had a little chat about crossing gates and leaving them open, and lit into them for nearly letting out her ponies. Meanwhile I called the propane provider and had a nice chat about notification and checking addresses. So somebody made a mistake. It happens. But now I need to fix a few things.

Leaning points:
All vehicle gates will now be padlocked.
I am going to put up better signage for delivery and service people.
I have called all of my providers who service the property and told them that they will not be granted access without 24 hour notice.

Is there anything else that you guys can think of that would help prevent something like this from happening again?

[Majer]

Much like the proper way to handle the new boyfriends of a daughter,You shoot the first one and the rest will fall into line...

[TAB]

signs are the best, but only work so well.   pad locks help, but are only good if you use them. 

[ellis4538]

JC, I would also make sure they call if there is any change of plans or if they will be earlier/later than expected.  I hate to wait around and not have them show up at the appointed time.  I know they can't know exactly to the minute but if they say "Between 11 and 1" I request they call so I am not waiting around for nothing or am not home because they are early!

Richard

PS:  Looks like Tab is in his UP mood!!!!!