Protect Your Van With Van Security Systems
Vans are vital for the livelihood of many tradesmen across the UK and are an ideal target for thieves looking to steal valuable tools or equipment. Security systems for your van can reduce the risk of theft, and give you peace of mind so you can focus on your leisure and work.
Locks
Locks are an essential component of van security systems. They protect your valuable equipment, tools and personal items from theft. They also impact the cost of insurance, which means that picking the right lock is essential if you wish to avoid costly penalties.
There are numerous van security locks available on market each with their distinct advantages and features. Understanding how each one can assist you in securing your vehicle will allow you to make an informed choice when choosing the best options for your requirements.
For instance, deadlocks provide a highly effective way to deter thieves by stopping them from opening or tearing the lock to open. Slam locks on the other hand are automatically activated when your door is closed. This makes them difficult to alter if you do not have access to your vehicle.
A wheel clamp is another popular method of securing your van. They are designed to deter thieves from removing your vehicle's wheels, leaving them unable to steal contents of your van. They are particularly helpful in urban areas where vans are more likely be targeted by thieves seeking their tools or parts.
Alarms are also an effective deterrent to thieves, as they typically emit a loud sound that can draw attention and deter potential intruders. There are many types of van alarms with a range of options from basic systems to Thatcham-approved systems. Each comes with its own advantages and benefits.
For example TVL's RepLock is a high-security lock that immobilises the locking mechanisms and handles of your vehicle's doors making it impossible to open or break in. The Ford Transit Custom comes with this feature as a standard. It can be utilized together with other security measures, like the steering wheel lock or parking in an area which is secure, ensuring a high level of protection.
Alarms
Van theft is a major issue for both tradespeople and those who are living the van lifestyle. The average loss of cargo costs PS4,250. A visible alarm system acts as a deterrent to thieves, and will make it difficult for people with people with no experience to break into your van. The alarm will sound and the ignition will be cut off in the event of a criminal trying to steal your vehicle. This means they'll be forced to give up their illegal gains and empty your vehicle.
There are many retrofit alarms that can be put on your van's side and rear to guard the doors and windows. They are usually activated by sensors that detect impacts and movements. They are available for most campervans as well as vans and pickup trucks. Some have even a load area siren and brackets, which means they are able to protect the cargo area too.
A security camera can also be used to prevent and monitor theft while away from your vehicle. Many options come with alerts for motion detection that are smart night vision capabilities, as well as wireless connectivity so that you are able to track your vehicle at all times.
Dashcams are also a great investment for vanlifers as they can be used to record hit-and-runs or crashes for cash. It is also useful to ensure that your vehicle is parked in a legal manner when parking in high-risk areas.
Immobilisers
Immobilisers make it nearly impossible for thieves steal your van. By connecting to your vehicle's electrics, they prevent the vehicle from being driven until you enter a particular code on the key fob or mobile application. These devices are especially helpful in situations where you must leave your van unattended while traveling or camping for a long period of time. They will alert you to any suspicious activities.
Installing an immobiliser will also reduce your van insurance rates since many insurance companies offer discounts to those who have them installed. It's important to find an approved, high-quality model that protects your vehicle to the greatest extent possible.
Alarm systems can be used in conjunction with some immobilisers for an additional layer of security. The minimum security system should include a keypad base station, entry sensor with motion detector. van security locks fitted can also include a smoke sensor to inspect the interior of your vehicle for signs of fire.
Other aftermarket security devices are available for vans, such as steering wheel locks, pedal and gearlever locks to prevent theft. Certain vans come with anti-pick cylinders that make it difficult for thieves to gain access to your vehicle. Another option is slam lock systems that automatically secure doors when you shut them, and wire window screens to prevent thieves from getting access to your valuable tools through windows.
Vans with #vanlife can house a lot of expensive tools, equipment and items. A break-in or theft could cost you thousands of pounds in replacements, so it's essential to take every precaution you can to keep your van secure. It's now more simple than ever to protect your vehicle using the latest technology and smart parking methods.
Tracking
You can track your van's location at any time using a van security system that incorporates the ability to track. This will give you peace of mind because you are assured that your vehicle is safe and secure. It also aids in administration because you can see how long a driver been driving or on an employment site, assisting with hours of service compliance and improving productivity.
Your tracking system can assist police locate a vehicle in the event that it was stolen. This tracker will also allow you to save money on insurance since many insurers view these devices as good deterrents to thieves.
The systems can be utilized with a variety of sensors, including RFID and GPS. RFID systems are suitable for vans that have to visit warehouses or logistic centers. GPS systems are powered by active or passive monitoring. They are best suited to vehicles that travel frequently as they can download data real-time.
Geofence zones can be put in place around garages or homes to notify you when your van leaves the area. This is helpful for companies with vans or cars that are given to employees as you can make sure that they are utilized in a proper manner. This will also stop the misuse of your assets by employees.
You can also check in on vans at any point using your smartphone app for live monitoring. Some of the most advanced models of van cameras have cellular capability and can save video recordings for offline viewing without the requirement of campground WiFi. This is particularly beneficial for vans traveling on backcountry roads that are not from cell phone service.
Maintenance
If your van manufacturer does not offer additional security features as an option It is worth looking into the options offered by private companies. Ask your leasing company if they can install any extras to enhance the security of your vehicle. They might even give you discounts on insurance for your van.
There are numerous types of van door security locks available however one of the most efficient is deadlock. This is an additional lock installed on a van's doors that requires a separate key to operate, which makes it difficult to force open. These locks are recommended for vans that are equipped with expensive equipment or if the vehicle is parked in areas that have high rates of crime.
Slam locks, which shut automatically when you shut the door, are another great alternative. They're great for couriers or drivers who drop off their vehicles but forget to lock the vehicle and they can be paired with a deadlock to offer the best protection against van burglaries. Shackle locks are another option that is popular. They secure the two sides of the door together and make it impossible to open the door without removing the lock.
External shields and anti peel brackets are useful security accessories for vans. They act as a visual deterrent to criminals. They're often combined with a hook lock for the rear and side doors, which provides the most effective van burglary protection. In the end installing a GPS tracker won't stop your vehicle from being stolen however it will make it much more difficult for thieves to sell the equipment on or use it to commit a crime. They are becoming more affordable.