Easy to Install Van Security Measures<br /><br />There are a number of security measures you can put in place to improve the protection of your van. Simple things like parking in well-lit areas with CCTV coverage and placing up a 'tools should not be left in this van overnight' sign can aid.<br /><br />Physical devices to prevent theft such as steering locks, pedal locks and hook lock catches are also effective. Pick locks that are approved by Thatcham.<br /><br />1. Lock the doors<br /><br />Many van drivers use the vehicles to transport expensive equipment and tools. This makes them a target for thieves who are opportunistic. Your life could be at risk if your van is broken into.<br /><br />When you're not using your vehicle ensure that it's locked securely and that keys are kept in a safe place. It is also recommended to park in open, well-lit areas that have a large public presence as this can deter criminals.<br /><br />The standard locks from manufacturers are typically easy to pick or force open However, specialist providers can make them harder to crack alternatives. RepLocks are installed by Ford Transit van dealers, are an example. Wheel clamps and pedals are also great examples. Lock shields are also helpful by securing the lock area with a plate made of metal that's impossible to drill through and preventing bolt cutting.<br /><br />Another alternative is a slam locks that locks automatically your load area doors when you close them, but requires an entry key. They are ideal for vans with multiple drop points and couriers. They can also be fitted a hook lock that provides more security to the rear and side doors.<br /><br />An engine immobiliser is another option, but while it does not stop theft, it does prevent your van from starting if the proper key isn't there. These are usually installed on newer vans, but could also be retrofitted to older ones.<br /><br />2. Secure the cap on the fuel filler.<br /><br />Caps for fuel can be detachable with a tool, by thieves who remove the wheel trims from vans that have a diesel or petrol engine. There are numerous ways to secure this part of your van. You can use a padlock or a strong cord that keeps it in the right place. Many of these cables are equipped with a light that can be activated by movements and alert you to any suspicious activity within your vehicle.<br /><br />Another physical deterrent is a steering pedal lock that stops the pedals and wheel from being used to drive away your vehicle. They can be secured using keys, and are extremely difficult to remove without the use of an angle grinder or other specialist tools.<br /><br />These tips for protecting your van are only useful if you implement them. So, make sure that you make securing your van part of your routine, and always secure the doors when you're not in it. It is also recommended to consider an engine immobiliser. These are often installed in new vans, but they are also available for older vehicles as well. They stop the engine from starting if it doesn't have the proper key, and a lot of them have a Thatcham Cat 1 rating, which could lower the cost of insurance.<br /><br />3. Install the lock that locks a<br /><br />If you do not lock your van properly, the back is vulnerable to thieves who are opportunistic. There are a variety of types of van locks available to safeguard your cargo. Deadlocks and slamlocks are among the most popular kinds. Both provide security for your van's cargo but a slam locks is better suited to those who frequently use the back of their vehicles such as courier drivers and multi-drop delivery drivers.<br /><br />The slam locks are made to automatically lock the van's door once it is closed. There is no need to worry about forgetting the van's doors if you're in a rush. They also serve as a visual deterrent to thieves. They are ideal for multi-drop drivers as they prevent the temptation to leave vehicles unlocked for too long.<br /><br />Our slam locks are vehicle specific and therefore you'll know they will fit. These can be installed on site by our fully qualified locksmiths. We also offer a course of training for locksmiths who would like to offer this service in order to reduce the number of commercial vehicle break-ins.<br /><br />The Garrison Slamlock is the slamlock kit we use during our training courses. It is mechanical slam lock that is integrated with the vehicle manufacturer's locking system to offer Maximum Security and a simple installation. It eliminates the need for a vehicle driver to physically open a door handle. This will ensure the compliance with Health &amp; Safety at Work regulations and Corporate Manslaughter laws.<br /><br />4. Install a catalytic converter lock<br /><br />Catalytic converters are essential to the vehicle's emissions control however, they also contain precious metals, which make them an attractive target for thieves. Installing locks on your catalytic converter is a cost-effective method to stop theft. It provides an physical barrier and also a visual deterrent. This small investment can save you from a costly replacement, and also the hassle of driving around with a non-operational car.<br /><br /><br /><br />There are several different types of catalytic converter locks that are available, ranging from simple cable-locking devices to more sophisticated ones which incorporate sensors to detect vibrations or heat. These devices are all effective in preventing thieves, regardless of their effectiveness.<br /><br />One of the most well-known choices is a clamp and cable device that is affixed to your catalytic converter. It includes a locking mechanism for cables to keep it secure. Amazon has a large selection of these devices that can be put in use on virtually any vehicle. Some models have a bright orange finish to make the catalytic convertor more visible. Some are made of stainless steel for greater cut resistance.<br /><br />Another option is to get your catalytic converter engraved with your vehicle identification number. This will make it easier for authorities or scrap dealers to trace the component back to its owner and can act as an effective deterrent to theft. You can also make the catalytic converter with fluorescent paint in order to make it more noticeable. It won't stop thieves completely but it might deter them from attempting to remove it and earn quick profits from its resale value.<br /><br />5. Install a partition<br /><br />A van partition is a great choice for those concerned about the vulnerability of their cargo space. It's essentially a steel wall that separates the rear of your van from the driver's compartment. This lets you keep things such as First Aid kits, reflective kits, and fire extinguishers while still being able drive your vehicle safely.<br /><br />A partition can also serve as a deterrent because it blocks thieves from accessing the rear end of your vehicle. This is an especially useful security measure for older vehicles that don't feature fuel cap locks, which are easily accessible with little effort using simple tools.<br /><br />A partition could also be fitted with motion detectors that track movement both within and outside your vehicle. These systems function like a home alarm system. They will notify you of any violation or tampering. In <a href="https://www.thekeylab.co.uk/van-security/">van security door locks thekeylab.co.uk</a> to these systems, some also offer GPS tracking capabilities that allow you to see where your van is located in real-time.<br /><br />These systems can be hardwired into your van or battery-powered to allow for portability and flexibility. They're usually available with a variety of features and mounts that meet your requirements, like an adjustable camera position and multiple camera capacities. Additionally, a partition can be paired with security signs that are visible and audible alarms for added deterrence. You can also invest in an invisible lock box that is secured in a discreet location inside your van to stow keys that you don't need.<br /><br />6. Brand your van<br /><br />The space in your van is essentially free advertising. If you are able to do it correctly, branding can help you attract new customers and improve the image of your business. It also helps discourage thieves, as a well-designed, eye-catching van sign will promote your business to any would-be thieves, and also inform them of the kind of tools or valuables that you have inside.<br /><br />Magnetic signs are the easiest to remove without causing damage to the paintwork on your vehicle. Vinyl wraps cost more however they provide some protection from dents &amp; will last for years. Another option is to hire an experienced graphic designer or sign writer to create a unique design for your van, which will look stunning but make sure to check that they have experience of installing security upgrades.<br /><br />It's worth checking whether your van is Category 2 certified. You can also install locks that slam or catalytic converter lock or a partition to increase your van's security. It's worth comparing prices to find the best deal. Some insurers offer discounts if you install extra security measures. Inform your insurer about any changes you make to your van. Making the effort to upgrade your van's security can aid in protecting your investment and ensure that it is secure throughout the day.<br /><br />