20 Trailblazers Setting The Standard In Van Security
Easy to Install Van Security Measures There are many simple security measures that will help to strengthen your van's security. Simple things like parking in areas with CCTV coverage and placing up a 'tools should not be left in this van overnight' sticker could aid. Physical theft prevention devices like steering locks and pedal locks, and hook lock catches could make a huge difference. Pick locks that are approved by Thatcham. 1. Lock the doors Many van drivers use their vehicles for work, bringing expensive equipment and tools. They are therefore the most frequent target for thieves who profit of the situation. Your livelihood could be at risk when your vehicle is broken into. If you aren't using your van, make sure it is secured and the keys are hidden. Parking in well-lit, open areas with a significant public presence can also discourage criminals. Specialists can replace standard locks to more difficult-to-break alternatives. Dealer-fit RepLocks for Ford Transit vans are a good example, as are pedals and wheel clamps locks. van side door security can also be helpful by securing the lock area with a metal plate that is impossible to drill through, and also preventing bolt cutting. A slamlock is another option. It locks your doors automatically when you shut them, but it requires the use of a key. They are ideal for couriers and multi-drop vans. They can also be fitted a hook lock that provides more protection for the side and rear doors. Another alternative is an engine immobiliser. While it won't stop theft, it does prevent your van from starting without the right key. These are usually fitted to new vans, but could also be retrofitted to older models. 2. Secure the fuel cap Fuel caps can be lowered with a tool, by thieves who remove the wheel trims on vans that have a diesel or petrol engine. There are several different ways to secure this part of your vehicle, including locking the cap with the use of a padlock or a sturdy metal cable that secures it. Many of these cables have an LED that is activated through movement to alert you to any suspicious activity around your van. A pedal lock, or steering lock is another physical barrier. It blocks the pedals and wheel from being used to drive your vehicle away. They are secured by a lock and key. They are difficult to remove, even using an angle grinder. Of course the van security suggestions can only be effective if you remember to use them! Make sure to secure your doors every time you leave your van. Also, you should consider installing an engine immobiliser. They are usually included in new vans, but they can be fitted in older vehicles too. They prevent the engine from starting until the correct key is present, and many come with an CAT 1 rating from Thatcham which can help reduce the cost of insurance. 3. Install a slam lock The back of your van is susceptible to opportunist thieves if it's not locked properly. There are many types of van locks that can safeguard your cargo. Deadlocks and slamlocks are among the most commonly used types. Both offer protection for your van's cargo however a slam lock is better suited to those who regularly access the back of their vehicles such as couriers and multi-drop delivery drivers. These slamlocks are made to lock the doors of your van automatically as soon as they are closed. This means you don't need to be concerned about not locking your doors in a rush and also acts as a visual deterrent to thieves. These are perfect for drivers who have multiple drop points because they stop the temptation of leaving vehicles open for too long. Our slam locks can be fitted to vehicles specific and therefore you can be certain that they will fit. They can be fitted on-site by our fully qualified locksmiths. We also offer a specialized training course for locksmiths who would like to offer this service to tackle the high number of commercial vehicle break-ins. The slam lock we employ on our training course is the Garrison Slamlock. This mechanical slamlock is integrated with the vehicle's locking system to ensure Maximum Security. It is easy to set up. It removes the need for the driver to physically open the manufacturers door handle, ensuring compliance with Health & Safety at Work and Corporate Manslaughter legislation. 4. Install a catalytic lock The catalytic converter is essential for the vehicle's emission control however, it also contains precious metals, making it a desirable target for thieves. Installing a lock on your catalytic converter is an inexpensive way to prevent theft. It creates an physical barrier and also a visual deterrent. It's a relatively small investment that could save you a substantial replacement cost and the hassle of having to drive around with an inoperable car. There are many types of catalytic lock systems available. These range from simple cable locks to more advanced systems that utilize sensors to detect heat or vibrations. While the effectiveness of these devices varies but they all work as effective deterrents for would-be thieves. One of the most well-known solutions is a clamp and cable device that is able to be fitted over your catalyser converter. It features a mechanism to lock the cable to keep it in place. These are easy to find on Amazon and can be used in almost every vehicle. Some have an orange-colored coating that helps make the catalytic converter visible as well as others made of stainless steel for increased cut resistance. Another option is to have your catalytic converter engraved with your vehicle identification number. This will make it easier for authorities or scrap dealers to trace the part back to its owner and is an effective deterrent to theft. You can also make the catalytic converter's fluorescent color to make it more noticeable. This won't stop thieves entirely, but it may discourage thieves from trying to take it off and making a quick profits from its price of resale. 5. Install a partition Van partitions are a great solution for those concerned about the security of their cargo space. Essentially, it's a steel wall that separates the rear of your van from the cabin of the driver. This lets you keep things such as First Aid kits, reflective kits and fire extinguishers, while being able drive your vehicle safely. Furthermore, a partition serves as a deterrent because it stops thieves from getting access to the rear of your vehicle. This is a very effective security measure for vans older than ten years and do not have locks for the fuel cap. These can be accessed easily with the help of simple tools. Additionally, a partition can be fitted with motion sensors that track the movement of people inside and outside your vehicle. They function similar to an alarm system for your home which means that any disturbance or breach will cause the alarm to sound and alert you to what's going on. Certain systems also offer GPS tracking, which allows you to monitor your vehicle in real-time. These systems can be hardwired into your van, or battery-powered to allow for portability and flexibility. They're usually available with a variety options and features that will meet your needs, such as an adjustable camera position as well as multiple camera capacities. In addition, a partition can be paired with security signs visible to the public and audible alarms to provide additional deterrence. You can also buy an invisible lockbox that is concealed inside your van. This allows you to secure store keys that you may not use. 6. Brand your van Your van's space is essentially an advertisement for free. If you manage it correctly, branding can aid in attracting new business and raise the profile of your company. It can also deter criminals, as a well-designed, eye-catching van sign will promote your business to potential thieves, and also inform them of the type of tools or valuables you might have in your. There are a few different ways to mark your van, but the most popular is probably magnetic signs that can be removed easily without causing damage to your vehicle's paintwork. Vinyl wraps may be more expensive, but they offer some protection from scratches and last for a long time. Employ a professional graphic designer or sign writer to design a unique look that will look stunning on your vehicle. However, make sure they have experience installing security upgrades. The majority of modern vans are fitted with alarms and immobiliser systems, but it's worth checking to ensure that yours is Thatcham Category 2 approved. You can also add a a catalytic convertor lock or even a partition in order to improve the security of your vehicle. Some insurance companies will reduce your premiums if you fit additional security measures, so it's always worth comparing to find the best deal. Inform your insurance provider of any changes you make to your vehicle. Improve the safety of your van to protect your investment and ensure it is always secure.