The 10 Worst Van Security Failures Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented
Easy to Install Van Security Measures There are a variety of easy-to-install security measures that will help to strengthen your van's security. Simple things like parking in areas that have CCTV coverage and installing a 'tools are not stored in this van overnight' sticker can aid. Physical security devices such as pedal locks and steering locks, as well as hook lock catches can make a big difference. Make sure to select locks that are certified by Thatcham. 1. Lock the doors Many van drivers employ their vehicles to work, transporting expensive tools and equipment. This makes them a prime target for thieves who are looking to make a profit. Your livelihood could be at risk in the event that your vehicle is smashed into. Make sure your vehicle is securely locked when you're not using it, and make sure the keys are kept away from view. Parking in well-lit, spacious areas that have a large public presence can also hinder criminals. Standard manufacturer locks are often easy to open by force or picking, but specialist suppliers can make them harder to crack options. Dealer-fit RepLocks for Ford Transit vans are a excellent example, as are pedals and wheel clamps locks. Lock shields are another option, since they protect the lock's area with a metal plate which is impossible to drill through. They also prevent cutting of bolts. Another option is a slamlock. It locks your doors automatically when you shut them, however it requires the use of a key. They are great for vans with multiple drop points and couriers. They can also be fitted a hook lock, which provides greater security to the doors on the sides and rear. Another alternative is an engine immobiliser. Although it doesn't prevent theft, it can prevent your van from starting without the proper key. They are typically installed on newer vans, but could also be retrofitted to older models. 2. Secure the cap on the fuel tank The majority of vans run on a petrol or diesel engine and thieves could gain access to the fuel tank by removing the wheel trims and lowering the fuel cap with the aid of a tool. There are numerous ways to secure this part of your van. You can use a padlock, or a sturdy metal cord that keeps it in the right place. A lot of these cables are equipped with LEDs that is activated by movements and alert you to any suspicious activity within your van. A pedal lock or steering lock is another physical deterrent. It blocks the pedals and wheel from being used to steer your vehicle away. These are secured with keys and locks. They are difficult to remove, even with an angle grinder. These tips for protecting your van are only effective if you follow them. So, make sure that you make securing your van part of your everyday routine, and that you always lock the doors when you're not using it. It's also worth looking into an engine immobiliser to your van – these are usually built into new models and can be installed on older vehicles, too. They prevent the engine from running without the proper key, and a lot of them come with a Thatcham Cat 1 rating that can reduce the cost of insurance. 3. Install the lock that locks a If you do not lock your van properly the back area is susceptible to thieves who are opportunistic. There are a variety of van locks that safeguard your cargo. They include deadlocks and slam locks. Both offer protection for your van's cargo however a slam lock is better suited for those who regularly access the back of their vehicle such as courier drivers and delivery drivers with multiple drop. The slam locks are made to automatically lock the van door once it is shut. This means that you don't need to be concerned about forgetting to lock your doors during rush hours and also provides an effective visual deterrent to thieves. They are perfect for delivery drivers who have multiple drop points in particular, as they prevent the temptation to leave vehicles unlocked for too long. We can supply slam locks that are vehicle-specific, which means you can be certain that they'll fit perfectly. Our locksmiths are able to install these locks on the spot. We also offer a course of training to locksmiths who want to offer this service in order to combat the high number commercial vehicle burglaries.
The slam lock kit that we use during our training courses is the Garrison Slamlock. This mechanical slamlock is integrated with the locking system of the vehicle for Maximum Security. It is easy to install. It removes the need for the driver to physically open the manufacturer's door handle, and is in conformity with Health & Safety at Work and Corporate Manslaughter legislation. 4. Install a catalytic converter lock Catalytic converters are vital to your vehicle's emissions control However, they also contain precious metals that make them attractive targets for thieves. Installing a lock for a catalytic converter is an inexpensive way to prevent theft by adding a physical barrier and an aesthetic deterrent. This small investment could save you from the expense of a replacement, and also the hassle of driving around with an unusable car. There are several different types of catalytic converter locks available, ranging from simple cable-locking devices to more sophisticated systems that incorporate sensors to detect vibrations or heat. These devices are all effective in preventing thieves, regardless of their effectiveness. One of the most well-known choices is a clamp and cable device that is affixed to your catalytic converter. It includes a locking mechanism for cables to secure it. These are easy to find on Amazon and can be utilized in almost every vehicle. Some even come with a bright orange coating to make the catalytic converter visible as well as others constructed of stainless steel to provide an increased cut resistance. Another option is to get your catalytic converter engraved with your vehicle's identification number. This will make it easier for authorities or scrap dealers to trace the part back to the owner and is an effective deterrent to theft. In addition, you could paint your catalytic converter in fluorescent paint to make it visible. This won't stop thieves from taking the catalytic converter however, it will deter thieves and allow them to earn a quick resale profit. 5. Install a partition Van partitions are a great solution for those concerned about the security of their cargo space. It's a metal partition that separates the back of your van from the driver's compartment. This lets you store things like First Aid kits, reflective kits, and fire extinguishers while still driving your vehicle in a safe manner. A partition can also serve as a deterrent, because it blocks thieves from accessing the rear of your vehicle. This is a particularly useful security measure for older vehicles which don't have fuel cap locks that can be opened with minimal effort using a few tools. A partition can also be fitted with motion detectors that monitor the movement of people within and outside your vehicle. These systems work like a home alarm system. security locks for van will notify you of any intrusion or altering. In addition to these systems, some also offer GPS tracking capabilities that allow you to know where your van is located in real-time. They can be hardwired into your van or battery-powered to allow for portability and flexibility. These systems are also available with different options for mounting and features to meet your requirements. For instance they may include multiple cameras or an adjustable camera position. A partition can be paired with visible security signage and audible alarms for added security. You can also purchase an unobtrusive lockbox that can be discretely secured inside your vehicle. This allows you to securely keep a spare key. 6. Brand your van Your van's space is basically an advertisement for free. If you do it right, branding can aid in attracting new business and increase the visibility of your company. It also can discourage criminals since an attractive, well-designed display on your van will announce your business and warn any criminals who might be tempted to steal your tools or valuables you might have in your. Magnetic signs are the easiest to remove without causing damage to the paintwork on your vehicle. Vinyl wraps are more costly but they offer protection from dents & will last for a long time. Another alternative is to engage an experienced graphic designer or sign writer to create a unique design for your van, which will look fantastic – but be sure to verify that they are capable installing security upgrades. It's worth checking that your van is Thatcham Category 2 certified. You can also add a slamlock, a catalytic convertor lock, or a partition in order to improve the security of your van. It's worth shopping around to find the best deal. Certain insurance companies offer discounts if you install extra security measures. Be sure to inform your insurance company of any changes you make to your van. By upgrading your van's security can help you protect your investment and ensure it's safe all the time.