Protect Your Van With Van Security Systems
Vans are vital for the livelihood of many tradesmen in the UK and are a target for thieves seeking to take valuable equipment or tools. Security systems for your van can reduce these risks, giving you peace of mind so you can focus on your leisure and work.
Locks
Locks are a crucial component of van security systems , helping to safeguard your valuable equipment, tools and personal belongings from theft. They also impact your insurance premiums, which means that picking the right lock is crucial if you want to avoid costly penalties.
There are numerous van security locks available on market each with its own advantages and features. Knowing how they can assist in securing your van will allow you to make informed decisions in selecting the right lock for your requirements.
Deadlocks, for instance are a great method to prevent theft by stopping the thief from picking or slamming the lock. In addition, slam locks will automatically open when the door is closed making them impossible to alter without access to your vehicle.
A wheel clamp is a common method of securing your vehicle. They are designed to deter thieves from removing your vehicle's wheels, making them unable to steal contents of your van. They are especially useful in urban areas where vans are more likely be targeted by thieves for their parts or tools.
Alarms are also a great deterrent to thieves since they are loud enough to draw attention and deter potential burglars. There are various types of van alarms, from basic to factory-fitted Thatcham approved systems, with each offering its own unique advantages and features.
For example TVL's RepLock is a high-security lock that immobilises the locking mechanisms and handles of your vehicle's doors, making it difficult to manipulate or break into. It is currently a factory-fit option on the Ford Transit Custom and can be combined with other security measures like the steering wheel lock or parking in a secure spot to offer a high security level.
Alarms
Van theft is a significant problem for both tradespeople as well as those who live the van life. The average loss of cargo costs around PS4,250. An alarm system that is visible acts as a deterrent to thieves, and makes it difficult for people with low lifes to break into your van. If someone tries to rob your vehicle, the alarm will go off and the ignition will cut off. This means that they will be forced to abandon the illegal gain and leave the van empty.
There are a variety of retrofit alarms that can be put on your van's side and rear to guard the windows and doors. They are typically activated by built-in sensors detecting impacts and movement. They can be fitted on the majority of campervans, pickup trucks and vans. Some come with a load-area siren and brackets that secure the cargo space as well.
A security camera is another great way to deter and detect theft. It can be used to watch your van when you're away from it. There are a variety of options that include smart motion detection alerts and night vision capabilities, in addition to wireless connectivity. This allows you to track your van at any moment.
Dashcams are also a good investment for vanlifers as it can help catch crashes or hit-and-runs for cash incidents. It's also helpful to ensure that your vehicle is legally parked when you park in areas with high risk.
Immobilisers
Immobilisers make it nearly impossible for thieves steal your van. By connecting to your van's electrics, they prevent the van from being driven unless you input a specific code on an electronic key fob or mobile app. These devices are especially useful if you have to leave your van unattended while traveling or camping for a long period of time. They can alert you to any suspicious activity.
Installing an immobiliser will also lower your insurance costs for your van since a lot of insurance companies offer discounts to customers who have them installed. It's important to find an approved model that is of high quality and that protects your vehicle as far as possible.
Alarm systems can be combined with some immobilisers for an additional layer of security. A minimum system setup should include an initial station, a keypad, and entry sensor (with a motion detector). You can also add smoke sensors to monitor the interior of your van for indications of fire.
Vans can be equipped with additional security devices including pedal and gearlever lock and steering wheel locks. These are designed to deter theft. Some vans have anti-pick cylinders that make it harder for thieves to get into your vehicle. Other options include slam locks that lock doors automatically when you close them and window screens made of wire that stop thieves from gaining access to valuable tools through windows.
Vans utilised for #vanlife can carry a lot of expensive equipment, tools and goods. It is important to keep your van safe. A burglary, break-in or other incident could cost you thousands of dollars in replacements. The good news is that with the latest technology and intelligent parking methods, it's more simple than ever before to secure your vehicle.
Tracking
You can monitor the location of your van anytime with a van security system that incorporates the ability to track. You can feel secure knowing that your van is secure. It aids in administration by allowing you to track how long a worker been at a job site or driving. This is beneficial in ensuring compliance with hours of service.
If your vehicle was stolen, your tracking system can provide precise location information to help police locate it. The tracker can also help you save on insurance since many insurers see these devices as good deterrents to thieves.
The systems can be utilized with a range of sensors, including RFID and GPS. RFID systems are ideal for vans that travel to warehouses or logistic centres. GPS systems can be powered by a passive or an active approach to monitoring, but they are best designed for use in vehicles that travel extensively, as they can download data in real-time.
Geofence zones can be erected around a house or garage to alert you when your van leaves the area. This is useful for company vehicles or vans given to employees as you can make sure that they are utilized in a proper manner. This can stop employees from stealing your assets.
You can also track a van in real-time via the app on your smartphone. Some of the most advanced van cameras come with cellular capabilities and can save video recordings to be viewed offline without the need to rely on wifi at the campground. This is especially useful for vans on backcountry roads which are far from cell service.
Maintenance
If your van manufacturer doesn't offer additional security features as an optional extra it is worth looking into what private companies can offer. Ask your leasing company if they're able to add any additional features to improve the security of your vehicle. They might even offer you discounts on your van insurance.
There are many kinds of van security locks, however, a deadlock is one of the most secure. It's an additional lock that is installed on the door of the van, which requires a different key to operate. It makes it difficult to open the door. These locks are particularly advised for vans with expensive equipment or when the vehicle is parked overnight in high crime areas.
Slam locks, which shut automatically when you close the door, are an good alternative. They are perfect for couriers and short-drop drivers who not be aware of the need to secure their vehicle. They can also be combined with a deadlock to provide the best protection against van burglaries. Other options for security include shackle locks, which connect the two sides of a door so that they can't be opened without taking off the lock.
Other useful security accessories that can be incorporated into the van are external shields and anti-peel brackets, which serve as a visual security measure against criminals. These are often combined with hook locks for the side and rear doors to offer the most effective van burglary solution. Installing a GPS tracker won't prevent your vehicle being stolen but it can make it harder for thieves to want to take it away. It's becoming increasingly affordable to install these devices as well.