Protect Your Van With Van Security Systems
Many tradespeople in Britain depend on vans to earn a living. They can also be targets for thieves who wish to steal valuable equipment or tools. Security systems for your van will help reduce these risks, giving you peace of mind so you can concentrate 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 affect 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 available with each offering distinct benefits and features. Knowing how they help secure your van allows you to make informed choices when selecting the best lock for your requirements.
Deadlocks, for instance, are a great method to stop theft by preventing the criminal from picking or forcing open the lock. Additionally, slam locks automatically open when the door is shut making them impossible to manipulate without access to your vehicle.
A wheel clamp is another popular method of securing your van. They are designed to prevent thieves from taking your vehicle's wheels, making them unable to steal the contents of your van. They are particularly beneficial in urban areas, in which a van is more likely to be targeted by thieves for its components or tools.
Finally, alarms are effective in deterring thieves, as they typically emit a loud sound that can draw attention and deter potential thieves. There are many types of van alarms that range from basic alarms to systems that are certified by Thatcham. Each one has its own advantages and benefits.
TVL's RepLock for instance, is a high-security lock that locks your vehicle's handles and locking mechanisms which makes it impossible to move. It is currently a factory-fitting option on the Ford Transit Custom and can be combined with other security measures like 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 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 makes it much harder for people with no experience to break into your van. If a criminal tries to steal your vehicle the alarm will go off and the ignition will be cut off. This means that they'll be forced to give up their illegal gains and take your vehicle away.
There are several retrofit alarms that can be installed on the van's side and rear to safeguard the windows and doors. These are usually set off with built-in sensors that detect movements and impacts. They can be fitted on the majority of campervans and pickup trucks and vans. Some come with a load-area siren and brackets that secure the cargo space as well.
A security camera can also be used to keep an eye on and deter theft while away from your vehicle. Many cameras include alerts for motion detection that are smart, night vision capability and wireless connectivity so that you can track your van throughout the day.
Dashcams are also a great investment for vanlifers because they can be used to record hit-and-runs or crashes for cash. It is also useful to ensure that your car is properly parked when parking in high-risk areas.
Immobilisers
Immobilisers make it almost impossible for thieves to steal your van. By connecting to your vehicle's electrics, they prevent the vehicle from being driven until you input a specific code on a key fob or mobile application. These devices are especially helpful if you have to leave your van unattended when traveling or camping for a long period of time. They can notify you of any suspicious activity.
Installing an immobiliser can help lower your insurance costs for your van as insurers often offer discounted rates to customers who have an immobiliser installed. It is important to select an approved, high-quality model that will safeguard your vehicle as much as possible.
Alarm systems can be used in conjunction with some immobilisers for an additional layer of security. A basic system should comprise a keypad, base station and entry sensor with a motion detector. You can also add smoke detectors to monitor your van's interior for signs of fire.
Vans can be equipped with additional security devices, such as pedal and gearlever locks, as well as steering wheel locks. These are designed to deter theft. Some of them even have anti-pick cylinder locks, which make it difficult for thieves to gain entry into your vehicle. Other options are lock systems that automatically lock doors when you close them and wire window screens to prevent thieves from gaining access to your valuable tools through windows.
Vans that are used for #vanlife be loaded with expensive tools, equipment and other goods. A break-in or theft could cost you thousands in replacements, so it's crucial to take every precaution you can to keep your vehicle safe. The positive side is that with the latest technologies and smart parking methods, it's more simple than ever before to secure your van.
Tracking
A van security system with a tracker will allow you to keep track of the location of your van at all times. You'll be able to feel confident knowing that your van is secured. It also helps with admin as you can see the length of time a driver has been on the road or on an employment site, assisting with compliance with hours of service and improving productivity.
If your vehicle has been taken away, your tracking system can provide precise location information to assist police in recovering it. This tracker will also help you save on insurance since many insurers view these devices as good deterrents to thieves.
ford van security can be used in conjunction with a variety of sensors, such as 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 are better designed for use in vehicles that travel a lot, since they can download information in real-time.
You can create geofence zones around a property or even a garage, and get an alert when your vehicle isn't in the zone. This is helpful for companies with vans or cars that are given to employees as you can ensure that they are used properly. This will also stop the misuse of your assets by employees.
You can also monitor a van at any time using your smartphone app for real-time monitoring. Some of the latest van cameras are cellular capable and can save videos that can be viewed offline, without relying on WiFi at the campground. This is particularly beneficial for vans that travel on backcountry roads that are away from cell service.
Maintenance
Many van manufacturers offer additional security options as optional extras on their vehicles, but if yours does not, it's worth looking into what can be fitted by private companies. Ask your leasing company if they are able to add any extras to increase the security of your vehicle. They might even give you an extra discount on insurance for your van.
There are a variety of van security locks, but a deadlock is considered to be one of the best. This is a lock that is installed on the van's door that requires a different key to operate. It makes it difficult to open the door. They are especially advised for vans with expensive equipment or when the vehicle is stored overnight in high-crime areas.
Slam locks that lock automatically when the door is shut are a good option. They are ideal for couriers and drivers with short-drops who forget to secure the vehicle. They can also be combined with a deadlock to provide maximum security against van burglaries. Shackle locks are another option that is popular. They secure the two sides of the door and make it impossible to open the door without removing the lock.
Other security accessories that can be fitted to 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 provide the most effective van burglary solution. Also 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 device on or use it for criminal activity. It's becoming more affordable to install these devices too.