A Provocative Rant About Van Security
Easy to Install Van Security Measures There are numerous security measures you can install to improve the protection of your vehicle. Simple things like parking in areas with CCTV coverage, and placing up a 'tools should not be stored in this van overnight' sticker can assist. Physical theft prevention devices like steering locks, pedal locks, and hook lock catch are also efficient. Pick locks that are approved by Thatcham. 1. Lock the doors Many van drivers employ their vehicles to work, transporting expensive tools and equipment. visit the following webpage are therefore an ideal target for thieves who profit of the situation. Your livelihood could be at risk in the event that your vehicle is smashed into. If you aren't using your van ensure it's secured and keys are kept in a safe place. Parking in well-lit, open areas that have a large public presence can also discourage criminals. Specialist suppliers can upgrade standard locks with more difficult-to-break alternatives. RepLocks that are fitted by Ford Transit van dealers, are an example. Wheel clamps and pedals are also excellent examples. Lock shields are also helpful by securing the lock area by putting up a metal plate that is impossible to drill through and prevents bolt cutting. A slamlock is another option. It locks your doors automatically when you close them, but it requires a key. They are ideal for vans that have multiple drop locations and couriers. They can also be fitted with a hook lock that provides more security to the side and rear doors. Another option is an engine immobiliser. While it won't stop theft, it will prevent your van from starting without the correct key. They are typically installed on newer vans, but can also be retrofitted to older models. 2. Secure the cap on the fuel tank Caps for fuel can be removed using a tool used by thieves who remove the wheel trims from vans equipped with engines that run on petrol or diesel. There are several different ways to protect this area of your van, including locking the cap with padlocks or a strong metal cable that secures it. A lot of these cables come with an LED that is activated by movement to alert you to any suspicious activities around your van. Another physical dissuader is a steering or pedal lock, which stops the pedals and wheel from being used to drive away your vehicle. They can be secured using the use of a key, and they are very difficult to remove without the help of an angle grinder or other specific tools. These van security tips are only useful if you use them. Make sure you secure your doors every time you leave your van. It is also recommended to consider an engine immobiliser. They are usually installed in new van models, but can be installed in older vehicles as well. They prevent the engine from running until the correct key is present, and many come with a Thatcham CAT 1 rating that can help lower your insurance costs. 3. Install a lock with a slamlock If you don't secure your van in a proper manner, the back is vulnerable to opportunistic thieves. There are a variety of types of van locks available to protect your cargo. They include deadlocks and slam locks. Both locks provide security for your van's cargo, but a slamlock is better suitable for those who need to access their vehicle's rear regularly such as couriers and multi-drop drivers. These slamlocks are designed to lock the doors of your van automatically when they are closed. You don't have to worry about losing your van doors when you are in a hurry. They also act as a visual deterrent to thieves. They are perfect for delivery drivers who have multiple drop points in particular, as they keep from leaving vehicles unlocked for too long. Our slam locks can be fitted to vehicles specific and therefore you'll know they will fit. van security lock can be installed on-site by our fully qualified locksmiths. We also offer a specialized training course for locksmiths who want to offer this service to tackle the high number of commercial vehicle break-ins. The slam lock we use on our training course is the Garrison Slamlock. This mechanical slamlock is integrated with the vehicle's locking system to provide Maximum Security. It is simple to install. It eliminates 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 law. 4. Install a catalytic lock The catalytic converter is essential for your vehicle's emission control However, it also has precious metals which make it a tempting target for thieves. Installing a lock on your catalytic converter is a cost-effective option to deter theft. It provides an physical barrier as well as a visual deterrent. It's a relatively small investment that can save you a hefty replacement cost, as well as the hassle of driving around with a malfunctioning car. There are many types of catalytic lock systems available. These range from simple cable locks to more complex systems that make use of sensors to detect heat or vibrations. These devices are all effective in preventing thieves, regardless of their effectiveness. One of the most sought-after solutions is a clamp and cable device that can be positioned over the catalyser converter. It features a mechanism to lock the cable to ensure it stays in place. They are easily found on Amazon and can be used with almost any vehicle. Some models have an orange-colored finish to make the catalytic convertor more noticeable. Others are made from stainless steel for greater cut resistance. Another option is to get your catalytic converter engraved with your vehicle identification number. This will allow authorities to trace the owner of the item or scrap dealers. It also acts as a deterrent against theft. You can also paint the catalytic converter fluorescent to make it more noticeable. This won't prevent thieves from stealing the catalytic converter, but it will discourage them and allow them to earn a quick resale profit. 5. Create a partition Van partitions are a great solution for those who are concerned about the security of their cargo space. It's a steel partition that separates your van's rear from the driver's compartment. This lets you keep things such as 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 stops thieves from getting access to the rear of your vehicle. This is a particularly useful security measure for older vans that don't have fuel cap locks that can be accessed without much effort using simple tools. Additionally, a partition can be equipped with motion sensors that track movement inside and outside your vehicle. They function similar to a house alarm system, meaning that any tampering or intrusion will trigger the alarm and notify you of what's happening. Some systems also offer GPS tracking, which allows you to monitor your vehicle in real time. They are available in both battery and hardwired powered versions to offer flexibility and portability. They're usually offered with a variety of mounts and features that suit your requirements, like an adjustable camera position as well as multiple camera capacity. A partition can be combined with visible security signage and audible alarms for added protection. You can also invest in an unnoticed lock box, which is placed in a discreet location inside your van, to store an extra key. 6. Brand your van The space on your van is essentially free advertising – and if you get it right branding can help gain new customers and improve the image of your business. It can also deter criminals because a well designed, eye-catching signage on your van will announce your business's name and warn criminals who might be tempted to steal your tools or valuables you may have inside. There are a few different ways to mark your van however the most well-known is probably magnetic signs that are easily removed without causing damage to your vehicle's paintwork. Vinyl wraps can be more expensive but they provide some protection against scratches and last for many years. Another option is to employ a professional sign writer or graphic company to create a unique design for your vehicle, which will look fantastic but make sure to check that they have experience of installing security upgrades. It is important to ensure that your van is Thatcham Category 2 certified. You can also install an slamlock, catalytic convertor lock or even a partition to increase the security of your van. It's worthwhile to shop around to find the best price. Certain insurers offer discounts when you install extra security measures. Remember to inform your insurer of any changes you make to your van. By upgrading your van's security can help you protect your investment & ensure it stays safe at all times.