24 Hours For Improving Van Security

Easy to Install Van Security Measures There are many security measures you can install to protect your vehicle. Simple things like parking in areas that have CCTV coverage and placing up a 'tools should not be stored in this van overnight' sign can help. Physical theft prevention devices like pedal locks and steering locks, as well as hook lock catches can make a significant difference. Choose locks that are approved by Thatcham. 1. Lock the doors Many van drivers use the vehicles to transport expensive equipment and tools. They are therefore the most frequent target for thieves who profit of the situation. Your life could be in danger if your van is broken into. Ensure your van is securely locked when you aren't making use of it, and make sure keys are kept out of sight. Parking in well-lit, wide areas that have a large public presence can deter criminals. Standard manufacturer locks are often easy to pick or force open, but specialist suppliers can make them harder to crack alternatives. RepLocks that are fitted by Ford Transit van dealers, are a good example. Wheel clamps and pedals are also good examples. Lock shields are also helpful protect the lock's area with a plate made of metal which is difficult to drill through and prevents bolts from cutting. Another option is a slam lock, which automatically locks your doors to the load area when you close them, but requires a key to operate. They are great for vans that have multiple drop locations, and they can also be fitted with a hook lock mechanism 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 stop your vehicle from starting without the proper key. They're typically installed on newer vans however, they can be retro-fitted to older models. 2. Secure the cap to the fuel filler. The majority of vans run on diesel or petrol engines, and thieves can gain access to the fuel tank by removing the wheel trims, and dropping the fuel cap using a tool. There are several different ways to secure this part of your van, including locking the cap with the use of a padlock or an extremely strong cable made of metal that secures it. A lot of these cables have an LED that can be activated by movement to alert you to any suspicious activity within your vehicle. A pedal lock, or steering lock is a different physical deterrent. It stops the pedals and wheel from being used to drive your vehicle away. They can be secured using the use of a key, and they are extremely difficult to remove without the aid of an angle grinder or other special tools. These tips for van security are only effective if you follow them. Therefore, ensure that securing your van is part of your daily routine, and that you always secure the doors when you're not in it. It is also recommended to consider an engine immobiliser. They are usually included in new vans, but they can be fitted in older vehicles too. They work by stopping the engine from starting until the correct key is present and a majority of them have an CAT 1 rating from Thatcham, which can help to reduce your insurance costs. 3. Install the slamlock If you don't secure your van correctly the back area is susceptible to opportunistic thieves. There are a variety of kinds of van locks available to secure your cargo. Deadlocks and slamlocks are among the most commonly used types. Both are designed to protect your van cargo but a slam lock is more suitable for those who frequently use the back of their vehicle such as courier drivers and multi-drop delivery drivers. The slam locks are made to automatically lock the van door once it is shut. You don't need to worry about omitting your van doors when you're in a hurry. They also serve as a visual deterrent to thieves. They are ideal for delivery drivers who have multiple drop points in particular, as they prevent the temptation to leave vehicles unlocked for too long. Our slam locks are car specific, so you can be sure they will fit. Our locksmiths are able to install these locks on the spot. We also offer a training program to locksmiths who want to provide this service to stop the plethora of commercial vehicle burglaries. The Garrison Slamlock is the slamlock kit we use in our training courses. This is a mechanical slam lock which integrates with the vehicle manufacturer's locking system to offer Maximum Security and a simple installation. It eliminates the requirement for a driver of a vehicle to physically open a door handle. This will ensure that it is in compliance with Health & Safety at Work legislation and Corporate Manslaughter laws. 4. Install an electronic catalytic lock The catalytic converter is crucial for the vehicle's emission control however, it also contains precious metals, making it a tempting target for thieves. Installing a lock on your catalytic converter is a cost-effective method to stop theft. It adds an physical barrier and also a visual deterrent. This small investment could save you from the expense of a replacement, and also the hassle of driving around in an unusable car. There are many different kinds of catalytic converter locks that are available that range from basic cable-locking devices to more sophisticated systems which 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 solutions is a cable clamp device that is able to be fitted over the converter catalyser. It features a cable locking mechanism to ensure it stays in place. Amazon offers a variety of these devices that can be put in use on virtually any vehicle. Some have an orange-colored coating to make the catalytic converter visible and some are made of stainless steel for increased cut resistance. Another option is to get your catalytic converter engraved with your car identification number. This will allow authorities to trace the owner of the component or scrap dealers. It also serves as a deterrent against theft. In addition, you could paint your catalytic converter with fluorescent paint to make it visible. This won't stop thieves completely, but it may discourage those who try to remove it and earn a quick profit on its potential resale value. 5. Install a partition A van partition is a great solution for those concerned about the security of their cargo space. It's basically an iron wall that divides the back of your van from the cabin of the driver. This lets you keep fire extinguishers and reflective kits as well as First Aid kits, while being capable of driving your vehicle in a safe manner. A partition can also serve as a deterrent because it prevents thieves accessing the rear of your vehicle. This is an especially useful security measure for older vehicles which don't have fuel cap locks that can be opened with minimal effort using a few tools. Additionally, a partition can be fitted with motion sensors that track the movement of people inside and outside your vehicle. These work much like an alarm system for your home and any alteration or intrusion will cause the alarm to sound and notify you of what's happening. Certain systems also offer GPS tracking, which allows you to monitor your vehicle in real time. These systems are available in both hardwired and battery powered models to allow for flexibility and mobility. They're also often available with a variety of features and mounts that meet your needs, including an adjustable camera position and multiple camera capacities. In addition, a partition can be combined with security signs that are visible and audible alarms for additional deterrence. You can also invest in an unnoticed lock box, which is placed securely inside your van to safely store keys that you don't need. 6. Brand your van The space in your van is basically an advertisement for free. If you do it right, branding can assist in attracting new customers and boost the profile of your company. It also helps deter criminals, as a well-designed, eye-catching van sign will announce your business to potential thieves, and could also warn them of the kind of tools or valuables that you contain inside. There are many ways to mark your van however the most well-known is probably magnetic signs which are easily removed without causing damage to your vehicle's paintwork. Vinyl wraps can be more expensive but they provide some protection against dents and will last for years. Another alternative is to engage a professional graphic designer or sign writer to create a unique design for your vehicle, which will look stunning – but be sure to verify that they are capable of installing security upgrades. The majority of modern vans are equipped with alarms and immobilisers however it is worth checking to ensure that yours is Thatcham Category 2 approved. van security system can also fit a slam lock or a catalytic converter lock, or a partition to increase your van's security. It's worthwhile to shop around to find the best deal. Some insurers offer discounts when you install extra security measures. Remember to inform your insurer of any changes you make to your vehicle. By upgrading your van's security can aid in protecting your investment and ensure that it is secure at all times.