Commercial vehicles are essential for business purposes, carrying valuable equipment and personnel from job to job. However, their value to the business can also be a magnet for opportunistic thieves, especially if the van’s security features aren’t up to scratch. Van theft has been on the rise in the last ten years, with Comparethemarket.com reporting an increase of 81% in van theft from 2015 to 2019.
To make sure that you don’t suffer the same fate as these van owners, read this blog. From securing your van with suitable locks to parking carefully, let’s explore the steps you can take to safeguard your work van and its contents.
Choose Suitable Van Security Locks
The locks on your van are the first line of defence from thieves. While van thefts are typically seen as planned-out crimes, stealing tools and equipment is more likely to be undertaken by opportunistic thieves. Effective locks are the most basic form of van tool theft cover, especially as more than half of drivers admit to leaving tools in their van overnight.
At Theft Stop, we recommend the Bear Lock system. While most modern vans will come with a pre-installed lock or locking wheel nuts, they don’t offer the same quality at Bear Locks. With this unique van security system, we are confident it will protect your van from being stolen from your drive, load area, or overnight parking location.
Other options include slam locks, pedal locks, and specialist equipment that protects vans with higher ground clearance.
Don’t Leave Unlocked Vans Unattended
It might sound obvious, but always lock your van when it’s unattended. This is one of the basic van security tips, but it’s one of the most overlooked security measures. Opportunist thieves are looking for a chance to easily take power tools, expensive equipment, or the entire van, and even the latest security technology can’t help if the cab is unlocked.
To make sure the van is locked, always double check the handles, including rear and back doors where applicable. It’s a simple way to prevent van theft when you inevitably have to leave your van unattended.
Secondly, never leave the engine running. An unlocked van with a running engine is a thief’s dream as they can just jump in and shoot off. While CCTV cameras might get a snapshot, they’ll still get away without having to do very much.
Finally, ensure that keyless entry isn’t leaving you open to opportunists. It’s easy to accidentally unlock a van, and it only takes a lapse in concentration to end up with stolen tools or a missing van.
Additional Security Features
Beyond investing in strong van locks and locking wheel nuts, further security measures can help to protect your investment. Vehicle security systems, including alarm systems and immobilisers, are vital in protecting you from vehicle-related theft and these extra security measures can be added quickly. Physical security measures are also a psychological barrier, ideal as a tactic to deter opportunistic thieves.
Your best two options are alarm systems that trigger as soon as someone starts tampering with your van and an immobiliser that kicks in by disabling the ignition system or fuel supply. These systems can also bring insurance premiums down alongside providing extra peace of mind when parking your new van.
Another physical security option would be steering wheel locks. These additions are massively off-putting for thieves, as it’s a lot to overcome without alerting van drivers.
Tracking Devices
If the worst happens, a tracking device can be an effective way to locate your van. Installed in a discreet location, such as under the passenger seat, the tracker will pinpoint where you van has ended up after a break in. This data can also be passed to the police, and this will help in their investigations against the perpetrator.
While this security measure may not stop the initial theft of your vehicle, it can certainly help in the recovery afterwards.
Smart Key Storage
Once you’re done for the night, don’t just throw your keys down anywhere. Thieves have technology that can remotely unlock vehicles, and this is especially dangerous for those with keyless entry. By choosing a lockbox or other secure location, you don’t give them the opportunity they’ve been looking for.
Most vans also come with a spare set of keys, and it can be tempting to leave these in a convenient place. However, if it’s convenient for you and your team, it could also be enticing for a potential thief. Always store these keys in a secure location, including a key safe or lockbox. This simple precaution can prevent unauthorised access to your vehicle.
Parking the Vehicle Safely
Whether you need to park your vehicle overnight or for five minutes, there’s still lots to consider. The best preventative measures and physical deterrents in the world can be rendered ineffective if you park in the wrong area. When you’re choosing an area to park, always consider:
A Well Lit Area: Choose well-lit parking areas with good visibility, especially when leaving your van overnight or during work hours. Well-lit spaces are less appealing to thieves.
CCTV Cameras: Whenever possible, park in locations equipped with cameras. The presence of security cameras can deter criminals and provide valuable evidence if a theft occurs.
Ready to Prioritise Your Van’s Security?
Prioritising the safety of your work van is crucial for protecting your business and your livelihood. By following these top tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of theft or damage to your work van and its contents.
Remember that prevention is key, so take proactive steps to secure your van, use security devices, and always be vigilant when it comes to van safety. Your work van is not just a vehicle – it’s an essential asset, and safeguarding it should be a top priority.
Get in touch with our team today to find out more about the range of services and products we offer.
