Protect Your Van With Van Security Systems
Vans are essential to the livelihood of a lot of tradesmen in the UK and can be an easy target for thieves who want to steal valuable tools or equipment. Security systems for your van can help to reduce the risk, giving you peace of mind so you can focus on your work and leisure activities.
Locks
Locks are a fundamental aspect of van security systems, assisting to secure your valuable equipment, tools and personal belongings from theft. They also impact your insurance premiums, which means that choosing the right lock is vital if you want to avoid costly penalties.
There are many van security locks available on the market, each with its distinct advantages and features. Knowing how they can aid in protecting your van you to make informed decisions when choosing the right options for your requirements.
For instance, deadlocks are a highly effective way to discourage thieves by preventing them from picking or forcing the lock to open. Slam locks however, automatically engage when your door is shut. This makes them difficult to manipulate even if you do not have access to your vehicle.
A wheel clamp is another popular method to secure your van. They are designed to stop thieves from taking the wheels of your vehicle, which could keep them from taking the contents of your van. They are especially beneficial in urban areas, where a van is more likely to be targeted for theft of its parts or tools.
Alarms can also be a powerful deterrent to thieves since they sound loud enough to attract attention and scare away potential thieves. There are a variety of van alarms, from basic to factory-fitted Thatcham approved systems, each with distinct advantages and features.
For instance TVL's RepLock is an extremely secure lock that locks the locking mechanisms and handles of your vehicle's doors making it difficult to alter or open. It is currently an option that can be fitted factory-style on the Ford Transit Custom and can be combined with other security measures such as a steering wheel lock or parking in a secure location to provide a strong degree of security.
Alarms
Van theft is a major problem for both tradespeople as well as those who are living the van lifestyle. The average loss of cargo costs PS4,250. Visible alarm systems discourage thieves and make it harder to break into your vehicle. If a criminal tries to rob your vehicle the alarm will go off and the ignition will be cut off. This means they will be forced to abandon the ill-gotten gain and leave the van empty.
A variety of purpose-built retrofit alarms are available to be mounted on the side and back of your van to guard doors and windows. They are typically activated by sensors that detect impacts and movement. They can be fitted to all campervans, vans and pickup trucks. Some have a load-area siren as well as a brackets that can be used to secure the cargo area as well.
A security camera can be used to keep an eye on and deter theft while away from your van. There are many options that include smart motion detection alerts night vision capabilities, as well as wireless connectivity so that you are able to track your vehicle throughout the day.
Dashcams are also an excellent investment for vanlifers because they can be used to record hit-and-runs or crashes for cash. It's also helpful to ensure that your car is properly parked when parking in high-risk areas.
Immobilisers
An immobiliser makes it impossible for thieves to steal your van. They prevent your van from being driven until you enter a code using the key fob, mobile application or via the electrics. These devices are especially useful in situations where you must leave your vehicle unattended when traveling or camping for a long time. They will alert you to any suspicious activities.
Installing an immobiliser can also lower your insurance costs for your van since a lot of insurance companies offer discounts to customers who have them installed. It is important to choose an immobiliser that has been approved by Thatcham and will offer the maximum protection for your vehicle.
Some immobilisers can also be combined with alarm systems to provide another layer of security. The basic system should include the base station, keypad and entry sensor (with a motion detector). You can also include an alarm for smoke to monitor the interior of your van for signs of fire.
Vans can be equipped with additional security features like pedals and gearlever locks as well as steering wheel locks. These are designed to stop theft. Some vans have anti-pick cylinders which make it difficult for thieves to gain entry into your vehicle. Other options include slam locks that secure doors automatically when you close them and window screens made of wire that stop thieves from gaining access to valuable tools through windows.
Vans with #vanlife can house a lot of expensive tools, equipment and goods. It is essential to ensure your van is secure. A burglary, theft or other incident could cost you thousands of dollars in replacements. The good news is that with the latest technologies and smart parking techniques, it's now easier than ever to protect your vehicle.
Tracking
You can track your van's location anytime with a van security system that comes with an electronic tracker. This will give you peace of mind as you know your vehicle is safe and secure. It also aids in administration as you can see how long a driver has been on the road or at an employment site, assisting with compliance with hours of service and increasing productivity.
If your vehicle was stolen, your tracking device can provide precise location information to help police recover it. The addition of this tracker to your van will also cut down on the cost of insurance since many insurance companies view these devices as a good deterrent to thieves.
These systems can be used together with a range of sensors, such as RFID and GPS. RFID systems are ideal for vans that need to travel to warehouses or logistic centres. GPS systems are powered by active or passive monitoring. They are ideal for vehicles that are frequently on the move due to their ability to download data in real time.
Geofence zones can be set up around a house or garage to notify you when your vehicle leaves the area. This can be useful for company vehicles or vans that are loaned to employees since you will be able to ensure that the vehicle is properly used. This will also stop the misuse of your assets by employees.
You can also check in on a van at any time via your smartphone app for live monitoring. Some of the most advanced van cameras have cellular capability and can save videos to be viewed offline without the need to rely on wifi at the campground. This is particularly useful for vans that travel on backcountry roads that are away from cell phone service.
Maintenance
A lot of van manufacturers offer extra security options as an optional extra on their vehicles, but if yours does not, then you should check the options offered by private companies. Ask your leasing company if they are able to install any extras to enhance the security of your vehicle. They might even offer you a discount on insurance for your van.
There are several types of van security locks however, a deadlock is one of the most secure. It is a lock for van doors that requires a key to operate, which makes it difficult to force open. These locks are particularly advised for vans with expensive equipment or when the vehicle is parked overnight in high crime areas.
Slam locks, which lock automatically when you shut the door, are another great option. They are great for couriers and drivers with short-drops who might overlook the necessity of locking their vehicle. They can also be combined together with a deadlock for the best protection against van burglaries. Other options for security include shackle locks, which lock the two sides of a door together, so they aren't able to be opened without removing the lock.
Other useful security items that can be incorporated into the van are external shields and anti-peel brackets that act as a visible deterrent against criminals. They are often paired with a hook lock to secure side and rear doors, which is the most effective van burglary protection. Finally installing a GPS tracker won't stop your vehicle from being stolen, but it will make it more difficult for thieves to sell the device on or use it to commit criminal activity. It's becoming less expensive to install these devices too.