A Step-By-Step Guide To Van Security System From Beginning To End
Protect Your Van With Van Security Systems
Vans are essential to the livelihood of many tradesmen in the UK and could be a target for thieves seeking to steal valuable tools or equipment. Security systems for your van can help reduce the risk of theft, and give you peace of mind so you can concentrate on your leisure and work.
Locks
Locks are an essential component of van security systems. They safeguard your valuable tools, equipment and personal belongings against theft. They also affect your insurance premiums, meaning that choosing the right lock is essential if you wish to avoid costly penalties.
There's a wide selection of van security locks that are available that each comes with distinct benefits and features. Knowing how they assist in securing your van will allow you to make educated choices in selecting the right lock for your needs.
For instance, deadlocks provide an effective method to deter thieves by stopping them from opening or tearing the lock to open. Slam locks on the other hand, automatically engage when the door is shut. This makes them difficult to manipulate even if you don't have access to your car.
Another method of securing your van is with a wheel clamp. They are designed to stop thieves from removing the wheels of your vehicle, which will prevent them from stealing your van's contents. They are particularly helpful in urban areas where vans are more likely to be targeted by thieves seeking their parts or tools.
Alarms can also be a powerful deterrent for thieves as they are loud enough to draw attention and deter potential burglars. There are many kinds of van alarms available that range from basic alarms to Thatcham-approved systems. Each comes with its own advantages and features.
TVL's RepLock is a good example. It is a lock with high security that locks your vehicle's handles and locking mechanisms which makes it impossible to move. 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 a steering wheel lock, or parking in a secure spot to provide a solid level of protection.
Alarms
Van theft is a major problem for tradespeople as well as people living the van life alike and the average loss of cargo costing PS4,250. A visible alarm system acts as a deterrent for thieves, and will make it much harder for people with no experience to break into your van. The alarm will sound and the ignition will be shut off if a criminal attempts to take your van. This means they will be forced to abandon the ill-gotten gain and leave your van empty.
A variety of purpose-built retrofit alarms are available to be mounted on the side and back of your van, to safeguard doors as well as windows. They are typically activated by sensors that detect impacts and movements. They can be installed on the majority of campervans and pickup trucks and vans. Some come with an area siren for loading and a bracket that can be used to secure the cargo area as well.
A security camera is another great way to deter and detect theft. It can be used to monitor your vehicle while you're away. There are many options, including alerts for motion detection that are smart and night vision capabilities, as well as wireless connectivity. This allows you to monitor your vehicle at any moment.
A dashcam can also be an excellent investment for vanlifers as it can help catch hit and runs or crash for cash. It is also useful to ensure that your vehicle is properly parked when parking in high-risk areas.
Immobilisers
An immobiliser makes it almost impossible for thieves to take your vehicle. By connecting to your vehicle's electrics, they prevent the vehicle from being driven unless you enter a specific code on the key fob or mobile application. These devices are particularly useful when you need to leave your vehicle unattended when traveling or camping for long periods of time. They will alert you to any suspicious activity.
Installing an immobiliser can also lower your insurance costs for your van since a lot of insurance companies offer discounts to those who have them installed. It is essential to select an immobiliser that has been approved by Thatcham and provides the maximum protection for your vehicle.
Some immobilisers can also be used in conjunction with alarm systems to add another layer of security. A minimum system setup should include a base station, keypad and entry sensor (with motion detector). You can also include an alarm for smoke to check the interior of your vehicle for indications of fire.
Other security products from the aftermarket are available for vans, such as steering wheel locks, gearlever locks and pedals to deter theft. Some have anti-pick cylinder locks which make it difficult for thieves to gain entry into your van. Other options include slam locks that lock doors automatically when you close them and window screens made of wire that hinder thieves from accessing valuable tools through windows.
Vans with #vanlife can house lots of expensive equipment, tools and other items. A burglary or break-in could cost you thousands of dollars in repairs - it's crucial to take all the steps you can to ensure your van is safe. It's now easier than ever to protect your van with the latest technology and sophisticated parking strategies.
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 vehicle is protected. It also aids in administration as you can see how long a driver been driving or on a job site, helping with hours of service compliance and enhancing productivity.
If a van has been stolen, your tracking device can provide accurate location data to help police recover it. The addition of this tracker to your vehicle will also reduce insurance costs since many insurers consider these devices to be a good deterrent for thieves.
These systems can be used together with a range of sensors, including RFID and GPS. RFID systems are perfect for vans that need to travel to logistic centers or warehouses. GPS systems are powered by passive or active monitoring. They are best suited to vehicles that travel a lot, because they can download data in real time.
You can set up geofence zones around a property or even a garage and receive an alert whenever your vehicle isn't in the zone. This is a great option for company vehicles or vans that are lent out to employees since you will be able to make sure that the vehicle is being utilized in a proper manner. This will also help prevent misuse of your assets by employees.
You can also check in on the van at any time through your smartphone app to monitor the van in real-time. Some of the latest van cameras are cellular-capable and can store video recordings that can be viewed offline and not rely on the WiFi in campgrounds. This is especially useful for vans on backcountry roads which are far from cell phone service.
Maintenance
If your vehicle manufacturer does not provide additional security features as an option it is worth checking out what private companies can offer. You could also ask your leasing company whether they have any additional options that can improve your vehicle's security - and they might even give you discounts on your van insurance for doing so.
There are several types of van security locks, but a deadlock is considered to be one of the most effective. This is an extra lock installed on the van's door that requires a different key to operate. It makes it difficult to force open. They're especially recommended for vans carrying expensive equipment or when the vehicle is stored overnight in high-crime areas.
Slam locks that automatically lock when the door is closed are a great alternative. They're ideal for couriers or drivers who drop off their vehicles but forget to lock the vehicle and they can also be paired with a deadlock for the best protection against van burglaries. Shackle locks are another option that is popular. They secure the two sides of the door which makes it impossible to open the door without removing the lock.
Other useful security accessories that can be incorporated into a van include external shields and anti-peel brackets which serve as a visual dissuader to criminals. These are typically paired with hook locks for the side and rear doors to give you the most effective van burglary solution. Installing a GPS tracker won't prevent your vehicle from being stolen, but it could make it harder for thieves to are looking to take it away. It's becoming increasingly affordable to install these devices, too.