This Week's Most Popular Stories Concerning Van Security
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Easy to Install Van Security Measures
There are many security measures you can install to protect your vehicle. Parking in areas with CCTV and having a sticker that reads "tools should not be left in the van for more than a day" can be helpful.
Physical security devices such as pedal locks and steering locks, as well as hook lock catches can also make a significant difference. Ensure to choose Thatcham-approved locks.
1. Lock the doors
Many van drivers make use of their vehicles for work, transporting expensive equipment and tools. They are therefore a prime target for thieves who make a profit of the situation. Your livelihood could be in danger when your vehicle is broken into.
Ensure your van is securely locked when you're not making use of it, and ensure the keys are kept out of sight. Parking in well-lit, open areas with a large public presence can hinder criminals.
Specialist suppliers can upgrade standard locks to more difficult-to-break alternatives. Dealer-fit RepLocks for Ford Transit vans are a excellent example as are pedals and wheel clamps locks. Lock shields are also helpful, protecting the lock area by putting up a metal plate which is difficult to drill through and prevents bolts from cutting.
Another alternative is a slam lock, which automatically locks the doors to your load area after you close them, but requires the use of a key. They are perfect for vans with multiple drop points or couriers, and they can also be equipped with hook locks that offers more protection for your rear and side doors.
Another alternative is to install an engine immobiliser. Although it doesn't stop theft, it will make sure that your vehicle isn't able to start without the proper key. They are usually installed on newer vans however, they can be retro-fitted to older models.
2. Secure the cap on the fuel tank
The majority of vans use a petrol or diesel engine and thieves could gain access to the fuel tank by removing wheel trims, and lower the cap on the fuel tank using the aid of a tool. There are a variety of ways to secure this part of your vehicle. You can use a padlock or a strong metal cord that holds it in the right place. A lot of these cables come with an LED that can be activated through movement to alert you to any suspicious activities within your van.
A pedal lock or steering lock is another physical deterrent. It stops the pedals and wheel from being used to drive your vehicle away. These are secured with keys and locks. They are a challenge to remove even using an angle grinder.
Of course these van security tips are only effective if you remember to implement them! Be sure to lock your doors whenever you leave your vehicle. It's also worth looking into an engine immobiliser to your van - these are usually built into new models but are also available for older vehicles too. They prevent the engine from starting without the proper key, and many come with a Thatcham Cat 1 rating which can lower the cost of insurance.
3. Install an lock that locks a
If you do not lock your van in a proper manner the back of your vehicle is vulnerable to opportunistic thieves. However, there are various types of van locks available to secure your cargo. Deadlocks and slamlocks are two of the most commonly used kinds. Both locks provide protection for your van's cargo however, a slamlock is more suitable for those who need to access their vehicle's rear regularly like couriers and multi-drop drivers.
The slam locks are made to automatically lock the van door as soon as it is closed. You don't need to worry about losing your van doors when you're in a rush. They also act as a visual restraining device for thieves. They are perfect for multi-drop delivery drivers in particular, as they keep from leaving vehicles unlocked for too long.
Our slam locks are car specific which means you can be sure they will fit. Our locksmiths can install these locks on the spot. We also offer a course of training to locksmiths who want to offer this service to combat the high number commercial vehicle break-ins.
The slam lock kit we use on our training course is the Garrison Slamlock. This mechanical slamlock integrates with the locking system of the vehicle to provide Maximum Security. It is simple to install. It eliminates the requirement for a driver of a vehicle to physically open the door handle. This helps ensure the compliance with Health & Safety at Work laws and Corporate Manslaughter laws.
4. Install a catalytic lock
The catalytic converter is vital for the vehicle's emission control however, it also contains precious metals which make it a desirable target for thieves. Installing a catalytic converter lock is a low-cost method to prevent theft by adding an physical barrier as well as a visual deterrent. This small investment can save you from the expense of a replacement and the inconvenience of driving around with an unusable car.
There are a variety of catalytic lock systems on the market. They range from simple cable locks here to more advanced systems that use sensors to detect heat or vibrations. While the effectiveness of these devices differs however, they all function as a powerful deterrent to potential thieves.
One of the most sought-after choices is a clamp and cable device that fits over your catalytic converter. It also has a cable-locking mechanism to ensure it's secure. Amazon has a wide selection of these devices that can be used on nearly every vehicle. Some even have a bright orange coating to make the catalytic converter stand out and some are made of stainless steel for an increased cut resistance.
Another option is to get your catalytic converter engraved with your vehicle's identification number. This makes it easier for authorities or scrap dealers to trace the component back to its owner, and is a strong deterrent against theft. Finally, you can also paint your catalytic converter in fluorescent paint to make it more visible. This won't stop thieves entirely, but it may discourage thieves from trying to remove it and make an immediate profit from its resale value.
5. Create a partition
A van partition is a great option for those worried about the security of their cargo space. It's a partition made of steel that separates your van's back from the driver's compartment. This allows you to store things like First Aid kits, reflective kits and fire extinguishers, while being able to drive your vehicle in a safe manner.
Moreover, a partition acts as a deterrent because it prevents thieves from accessing the rear of your vehicle. This is a particularly useful security measure for older vans that don't feature fuel cap locks, which can be opened with minimal effort using a few tools.
A partition could also be fitted with motion detectors that track the movement of people within and outside your vehicle. These work much like a house alarm system which means that any disturbance or incident will cause the alarm to sound and notify you of what's happening. In addition to these systems, some of them offer GPS tracking capabilities that allow you to see the location of your van in real-time.
They are available in both battery and hardwired powered models to allow for flexibility and portability. These systems can also be fitted with different mounts and features to suit your needs. For example they could have multiple cameras or a camera that can be adjusted in position. A partition can also be paired with audible alarms as well as visible security signs for additional deterrence. You can also buy an invisible lockbox that is discretely secured inside your vehicle. This allows you to secure keep a spare key.
6. Brand your van
The space in your van is basically free advertising. If you do it right branding can help attract new customers and raise the profile of your company. It can also deter criminals, as a well-designed, eye-catching van sign will advertise your business to any would-be thieves, and also inform them of the type of tools or valuables you might contain inside.
Magnetic signs are the easiest to remove without damaging the paintwork of your vehicle. Vinyl wraps are more expensive, but they offer some protection from dents & will last for years. Another alternative is to engage a professional sign writer or graphic company to design a unique look for your van, which will look amazing however, you must ensure that they are experienced of installing security upgrades.
It's important to confirm that your van is Thatcham Category 2 certified. You can also add locks that slam or catalytic converter lock, or a partition to enhance the security of your van. Some insurance companies will reduce the cost of your insurance if you install additional security measures, so it's worth looking around for the best deal. Inform your insurance provider of any modifications that you make to your van. Improve the safety of your van to safeguard your investment and ensure that it is safe at all times.