Do Not Believe In These "Trends" About Van Security
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Easy to Install Van Security Measures
There are many simple security measures that can help strengthen your van's defences. Parking in areas with CCTV and displaying a sign that states "tools should not be kept in the van for more than a day" can be helpful.
Physical devices to prevent theft such as steering locks, pedal locks and hook lock catch are also efficient. Ensure to choose Thatcham-approved locks.
1. Lock the doors
Many van drivers make use of their vehicles for work, including transporting expensive equipment and tools. This makes them targets for thieves who are opportunistic. Your life could be at risk in the event that your vehicle is smashed into.
When you're not using your van, make sure it is locked securely and that the keys are hidden. It is recommended to park in open, well-lit areas with a heavy public presence to deter criminals.
The standard locks from manufacturers are typically easy to pick or force open However, specialist providers can upgrade them with more difficult-to-break alternatives. RepLocks are installed by Ford Transit van dealers, are a good example. Wheel pedals and clamps are excellent examples. Lock shields also help by securing the lock area with a metal plate that's impossible to drill through, and also preventing bolts from cutting.
Another alternative is a slam locks, which automatically locks the doors to your load area when you close them, but requires the use of a key. They are great for vans with multiple drop points or couriers and can be fitted with hook locks, which offers more protection for your rear and side doors.
An engine immobiliser is another option - although this does not prevent theft, it can prevent your vehicle from starting if the correct key isn't in place. These are typically fitted to new vans, but can be retro-fitted to older models.
2. Secure the cap to the fuel filler.
The vast majority of vans run on a petrol or diesel engine and thieves could gain access to the fuel tank by removing wheel trims and lowering the fuel cap with an instrument. There are a variety of ways to protect this area of your vehicle, such as locking the cap with the use of a padlock or a sturdy metal cable that secures it in place. A lot of these cables are equipped with a light, which can be triggered by the movement of your vehicle and alert you of any suspicious activity around your vehicle.
Another physical deterrent is a steering pedal lock, which prevents the pedals and wheel from being used to drive away your vehicle. These can be secured with the use of a key, and they are difficult to remove without the aid of an angle grinder or other specific tools.
These tips for van security are only useful if you use them. Therefore, ensure that securing your van is part of your daily routine, and always lock the doors when you're not in it. It's also worth looking into an engine immobiliser for your van - these are usually built into new models and are also available for older vehicles too. They prevent the engine from starting without the correct key, and most have a Cat 1 Thatcham rating, which could lower your insurance rates.
3. Install the lock using a slam
If you don't secure your van correctly, the back is vulnerable to opportunistic thieves. There are a variety of van locks that can safeguard your cargo. These include deadlocks as well as slam locks. Both offer protection for your van cargo however a slam lock is more suitable for those who frequently access the back of their vehicles such as courier drivers and multi-drop delivery drivers.
These slamlocks are made to lock the doors of your van automatically when they are closed. There is no need to worry about forgetting the van's doors if you're in a rush. They also act as a visual deterrent to thieves. These are great for drivers who have multiple drop points because they avoid the temptation to leave your vehicle unlocked for too long.
Our slam locks can be fitted to vehicles specific and therefore you can be sure they will fit. These can be installed on site by our fully qualified locksmiths. We also offer a course of training to locksmiths who want to provide this service in order to reduce the number of commercial vehicle break-ins.
The Garrison Slamlock is the slamlock kit we use in our training courses. It is an electronic slam lock that integrates with the vehicle manufacturer's locking system for Maximum Security and a simple installation. It eliminates the requirement for a driver to physically unlock the manufacturer's door handle, and is in compliance with Health & Safety at Work and Corporate Manslaughter laws.
4. Install a catalytic converter lock
Catalytic converters are crucial to the vehicle's emissions control However, they also contain precious metals that make them attractive targets for thieves. Installing a lock on your catalytic converter is an inexpensive option to deter theft. It creates physical security as well as a visual deterrent. It's a small investment that can save you from a costly replacement cost and the hassle of having to drive around in a car that is not working.
There are many different types of catalytic lock systems that are available. They range from basic cable locks to more complex systems that make use of sensors to detect heat or vibrations. While the effectiveness of these devices varies however, they all function as an effective deterrent for potential thieves.
One of the most well-known solutions is a cable clamp device that is able to be fitted over your catalyser converter. It has a mechanism to lock the cable to secure it. Amazon has a wide selection of these devices that can be installed on nearly every vehicle. Some models have a bright orange finish to make the catalytic converter more visible. Others are made from stainless steel to give you more cut resistance.
You can also write your vehicle's identification number on the catalytic converter. This will allow authorities to trace the owner of the part or scrap dealers. It also acts as a deterrent to theft. You can also paint the catalytic converter's fluorescent color in order to make it stand out. This won't stop thieves completely but it might deter those who try to remove it and earn a quick profit on its price of resale.
5. Create a partition
Van partitions are an excellent solution for those who are concerned about the security of their cargo space. It's a partition made of steel that separates your van's rear from the driver's compartment. This allows you to keep things such as First Aid kits, reflective kits, and fire extinguishers all while driving your vehicle safely.
A partition also serves as a deterrent since it stops thieves from gaining access to the rear end of your vehicle. This is an especially useful security measure for vans older than ten years old that do not have fuel website cap locks. They can be opened easily using a few tools.
Additionally, a partition can be fitted with motion sensors to monitor the movement within and outside of your vehicle. They function similarly to a house alarm system which means that any disturbance or breach will cause the alarm to sound and notify you of what's happening. Some systems also offer GPS tracking, which enables you to track your van in real time.
They are available in both hardwired and battery powered versions for flexibility and portability. They are also available with different features and mounts to meet your needs. For instance, they may have multiple cameras or an adjustable camera position. In addition, a partition can be used in conjunction with visible security signage and audible alarms for additional protection. You can also purchase an invisible lock box that is secured discretely inside your van to safely keep a spare key.
6. Brand your van
The space in your van is basically free advertising. If you get it right branding can help attract new customers and improve the image of your business. It can also deter criminals, as a well-designed, eye-catching van sign will promote your business to any would-be thieves, and may warn them of the kind of tools or valuables that you have inside.
Magnetic signs are the most straightforward to remove without causing damage to the paintwork of your vehicle. Vinyl wraps may be more expensive but they provide some protection against scratches and will last for years. Hire a professional graphics or sign writer to create a unique design that will look great on your vehicle. Make sure they have experience installing security upgrades.
It's worth checking whether your van is Category 2 certified. You can also add an slamlock, catalytic convertor lock or a partition to increase the security of your van. It's worth shopping around to find the most affordable price. Certain insurance companies offer discounts for installing additional security measures. Make sure to inform your insurance provider of any modifications you make to your vehicle. Taking the time to upgrade your van's security can aid in protecting your investment and ensure it's safe all the time.