Protect Your Van With Van Security Systems
Many tradespeople in Britain depend on vans for their livelihood. They can also be targets for thieves who want to steal valuable equipment or tools. Security systems for your van can to reduce the risk, giving you peace of mind so you can concentrate on your work and leisure activities.
Locks
Locks are an essential component of van security systems. They safeguard your valuable equipment, tools and personal belongings against theft. They also impact your insurance premiums, meaning that selecting the right locks is vital if you want to avoid costly penalties.
There's a wide selection of van security locks that are available, with each offering different advantages and features. Knowing how they aid in protecting your van you to make educated choices in selecting the right lock for your needs.
For instance, deadlocks are an effective method to deter thieves by preventing them from opening or tearing the lock to open. Slam locks however, automatically engage when your door is shut. This makes them difficult to manipulate when you aren't in your vehicle.
Another popular method to secure your van is using a wheel clamp. They are designed to prevent thieves from removing the wheels of your vehicle, which would prevent thieves from stealing your van's contents. They are particularly useful in urban areas where vans are more likely be targeted by thieves looking for their parts or tools.
Finally, alarms are effective in deterring criminals, as they generally emit a loud sound that can draw attention and deter potential burglars. There are various types of alarms for vans, ranging from basic to factory-fitted Thatcham approved systems, with each offering distinct advantages and features.
For instance TVL's RepLock is a high-security lock that immobilises the handles and locking mechanisms of your vehicle doors, making it impossible to open or break into. It is currently an option that can be fitted factory-style on the Ford Transit Custom and can be paired with other security measures such as the steering wheel lock or parking in a secure spot to provide a strong degree of security.
Alarms
Van theft is a major problem for both tradespeople as well as those who live the van life. The average cargo loss costs around PS4,250. An alarm system that is visible acts as a deterrent for thieves, and will make it difficult for people with criminals with low-level skills to gain entry into your van. The alarm will sound and the ignition will be cut off if a criminal tries to steal your van. This means they'll be forced to abandon their illicit gains and leave your vehicle empty.
Several purpose-built retrofit alarms can be mounted on the side and back of your van to guard doors and windows. They are typically activated by built-in sensors detecting the impact and movement. They can be fitted on the majority of campervans and pickup trucks and vans. Some have a load-area siren as well as a bracket that can protect the cargo space as well.
A security camera is a 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 alerts for motion detection that are smart and night vision capabilities, as well as the ability to connect wirelessly. This lets you track your van at any time.
A dashcam can also be a good investment for vanlifers as it can assist in catching the perpetrators of hit and run or crash for cash infractions. It can also be useful for ensuring your vehicle is parked legally when parking in risky areas.
Immobilisers
An immobiliser makes it almost impossible for thieves to take your vehicle. They prevent your van from being driven until you input a code through the key fob, mobile app or the electrics. These devices are especially useful when you need to leave your van unattended when traveling or camping for long periods of time. They will alert you to any suspicious activities.
Having an immobiliser fitted can help lower the cost of insurance for your van as insurers often offer discounted rates for customers that have an immobiliser fitted. It is essential to choose an approved model that is of high quality and that will protect your vehicle as far as possible.
Alarm systems can be used in conjunction with some immobilisers for an additional layer of security. A minimum system should include the keypad, base station and entry sensor with a motion detector. You can add smoke sensors to inspect the interior of your vehicle for indications of fire.
Other aftermarket security devices are available for vans, such as steering wheel locks, pedal and gearlever locks to prevent theft. Some even feature anti-pick cylinder locks that make it difficult for thieves to gain entry into your van. 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 utilised for #vanlife can be loaded with expensive equipment, tools and other items. A burglary or break-in could cost you thousands in replacements, so it's crucial to take every step you can to keep your van safe. It's now more simple than ever to protect your van with the latest technology and smart parking techniques.
Tracking
You can track your van's location anytime with a van security system that comes with a tracker. This provides peace of mind because you know your vehicle is secure and safe. It aids in administration and tracking how long a worker has been at a job site or driving. This is useful to ensure compliance with hours of service.
If a van has been taken away, your tracking system can provide accurate location data to help police locate it. By adding van security hook locks to your vehicle can also lower the cost of insurance since many insurance companies view these devices as a good deterrent for thieves.
These systems can be paired with a variety of sensors, including RFID and GPS. RFID systems are suitable for vans that travel to warehouses or logistic centres. GPS systems can be powered by an active or passive method of monitoring, but they are best suitable for vehicles that travel a lot, as they can download data in real-time.
You can create geofence zones around the property or even a garage to receive an alert whenever your van leaves the designated area. This is useful for company vehicles or vans that are lent to employees since you will be able to make sure that the vehicle is being used appropriately. This can also prevent abuse of your assets by employees.
You can also monitor vans at any point through your smartphone app for real-time monitoring. Some of the most advanced models of van cameras are cellular and can save video recordings to be viewed offline without the need to rely on wifi at the campground. This can be particularly useful for vans that will be disconnected from cell coverage for a prolonged period of time while driving backcountry roads.
Maintenance
If the manufacturer of your van doesn't offer additional security features as an optional extra, it is worth looking into the options offered by private companies. Ask your leasing company if they can add any additional features to improve the security of your vehicle. They might even offer you a discount on the insurance for your van.
There are a variety of van door security locks available, but one of the most efficient is a deadlock. This is an additional lock installed on a van's doors that requires a separate key to operate, making it extremely difficult to open. These locks are particularly advised for vans with expensive equipment or when the vehicle is stored overnight in high-crime areas.
Slam locks, which shut automatically when you shut the door, are another good alternative. They are great for couriers and short-drop drivers who might forget to secure the vehicle. They can also be paired with a deadlock to offer maximum protection against van burglaries. Shackle locks are another option that is popular. They lock the two sides of the door and make it impossible to open the door without removing the lock.
Other useful security accessories that can be incorporated into vans include external shields and anti-peel brackets that act as a visible deterrent against criminals. These are often combined with hook locks for the side and rear doors to offer the best van burglary defense. Installing a GPS tracker won't prevent your vehicle from being stolen, but it could make it more difficult for thieves who want to take it. These devices are also becoming more affordable.