Sask. farmer says carrying a firearm turns from fending off wildlife to personal safety

Despite the RCMP urging farmers not to take matters into their own hands, some Saskatchewan producers say they still feel the need to carry rifles for their safety.

• 'Let us do our jobs': RCMP respond to Sask. farmers taking up arms

A number of farmers have sent CBC photos of the firearms they are now keeping in the cabs of their trucks and farm machinery.

The precautions for some come after a farmhand nearFiske, Sask., was approached Monday on a rural road by three masked men carrying handguns.

"If my life was threatened, or if I felt my family's life was in danger absolutely," said DallasOstrom, who farms in the Bents area about 60 kilometres northeast ofFiske, when asked if he'd actually use the rifle he carries against someone.

It isn't anything new forOstromto be carrying a firearm. It used to be in case he came across wildlife like coyotes or skunks.

"But now, yeah, it's for personal safety. And that's a little ridiculous,"Ostromsaid.

RCMP: 'Let us do our jobs'

"We're aware that individuals will carry some firearms out for hunting reasons or even farming reasons,"RCMPSgt. EarlLeBlanctold the media on Wednesday. "But what we don't want people to do is to carry them for their own protection or for what they feel that is to protect others. Let us do our jobs."

LeBlanctold reporters that response time varies across the province, and admitted that theRCMPhas some challenges. However,LeBlancsaid Mounties deploy resources depending on the needs of the call.

Ostromsaid although Mounties are doing their best to respond to calls, it's a big area to cover.

Not everyone in the area has gone as far as carrying weapons. Some producers say they're taking new precautions like making sure the doors to their homes and shops are locked.

No matter what,LeBlancsaid theRCMPdoesn't want people taking matters into their own hands.

"Don't confront them. Call the police, immediately."