How to Make Your Van Secure
A van is a valuable asset that can transport expensive tools and equipment. The security of your van should be a top priority, and there are many ways to deter thieves and ensure your tools are safe.
Slamlocks lock doors immediately after you shut them. This is a great feature for couriers who make frequent drops or are prone forgetting to lock their van. Other upgrades include security stickers, covering or tinting the windows and fitting a vault lockable to tools.
Security locks
With the increasing number of vans used as a method of transportation and a mobile storage unit it is essential to protect their contents against theft. The right van security measures can deter criminals and safeguard your items, allowing you embark on your journeys with confidence.
The door locks of the van are the first line in defence. They protect the doors and block unauthorized entry. Standard locks, which are usually installed by the manufacturer, offer an adequate level of security but can be easily bypassed by determined thieves. Moving to more sophisticated security locks that are impervious to drilling, cutting and picking is an investment in security.
The factors to consider when selecting a van lock include the material and the build quality and whether it's Thatcham-approved. This means that the lock is of top quality and more difficult to alter. Other important aspects to consider are the slamlock system that automatically locks the doors to the load area upon closure and requires the use of a key to open them; this is perfect for couriers who forget to lock their van between deliveries. Another option is the hook lock, which provides additional security to the side and rear doors and prevents 'peel and steal' attacks.
It is essential to clean and lubricate your van locks in order to ensure their function and the strength of the mechanism. This prevents rust and corrosion and helps ensure smooth operation. Regular inspections allow you to detect the signs of wear and tear, and then address them promptly. This can prevent security vulnerabilities from developing.
Alongside improving the overall security of your vehicle, fitting the right security system can help you save money on insurance for your van. Many insurance companies are aware of robust security solutions providing favorable terms and additional coverage options.
Slamlocks
One of the most effective ways to deter thieves is by strengthening the locks of your van. By installing high-strength or slam locks the doors of your van will be more secure and less difficult to break into. This is especially crucial if your vehicle is used to transport expensive equipment or cargo.
A slam lock works automatically as soon as your door is closed and you don't have to press a key to activate the mechanism. It's less likely to be compromised, which makes it perfect for courier drivers and tradespeople that work out of their vans throughout the day. They may not remember to lock it at the end of each journey. It also helps in battling the petty thieves who just open the lock on your vehicle and take whatever they can, including the tools that you need to complete your job.
There are a number of different kinds of slam locks that are available that come with extra security features, for instance anti-drill and anti-pick technology or steel plates that block drilling attacks. Certain models are specifically designed for applications, like the ones used by multidrop drivers and for those who transport lots of valuable goods.
Deadlocks are a good option for those who need more protection than what an slamlock could provide. These operate independently from the locking mechanism used by the manufacturer and can only be opened with a supplied key with full control by the driver. Alternatively, you could invest in hook locks, which operates exactly the same way, but provides additional security with a deadlocking hook bolt which connects to an opposing body section and is operated with the key supplied under full control of the driver.
Dashboard cameras
Add a dash camera to your vehicle if you want it to be more secure and safer. These cameras can be used to prevent collisions and accidents when driving. They can also show your innocence in the case of an accident or traffic violation. They work by converting light signals into electrical signals and then convert the signals into digital information. These can be powered either via the battery of your car or by a cigarette-lighter.
Many of the dashboard cams available on the market have SD cards or flash drives to save recordings. These devices usually overwrite old footage to make room for new videos, but they can be upgraded using memory cards with high capacity if you want to store more video data. Some dashboard cameras have cloud storage, removing the need for memory card storage. These types of dashboard cams connect to a smartphone or Wi-Fi network and upload their data at various intervals.
Another aspect to take into consideration is whether the camera is wireless or hard wired. Hardwired cameras are less prone to interferences from cellular networks and other sources. They are also more durable, and some models are able to withstand weather.
Some vans have dual dash cams that can record footage from both the rear and front of the vehicle. This is helpful when reverses in tight spaces, or while in a parking spot. Certain cameras come with night vision, which is able to enhance images in low light conditions and increase visibility for the driver. Many van owners include this feature to their system. check here Some dashboard cams can be remotely monitored and this can be an enormous benefit for van dwellers who spend long periods of time away from their vehicles.
Alarms
Van life is becoming more popular among those who enjoy traveling and exploring However, it comes with its own risks. People who live in vehicles are usually susceptible to theft. Thieves could target the vehicle and its contents. There are a variety of ways to protect your vehicle and its contents however, one of the most effective is to install an alarm system. These systems can be connected to your keypad so that you receive alerts in the event of a burglary. These systems can also lower insurance premiums. This can save you thousands of dollars over the course of your vehicle.
A good alarm system has a base, keypad, and entry sensors to guard against door peal. Certain alarm systems come with built-in motion sensors that detects movement inside your van. The alarm will send an alert to your phone. This is a fantastic way to deter thieves and help you catch the thieves before they get to you.
Install deadlocks on your van's doors to make it more secure. They require a key for operation, and they're much harder to alter than standard locks. A good option is to purchase a lock that is capable of being operated using a smartphone app, so you can monitor your vehicle while you're away.
Many van alarms are also equipped with an engine immobilizer which disables the engine of your vehicle in the event that the wrong key is used to start it. This is a great precaution, but it will not stop a thief who is determined to who would take the entire engine. It is safer to use a low-power tracking device that will stop the engine from starting and provide you with the location of your vehicle when it is moved.
Insurance
Vans are a vital resource for many businesses and securing their contents is a top concern. Not only does a robust van security system give peace of mind, but it can also reduce insurance costs as insurers take the security measures of van owners into consideration when calculating premiums.
Your driving history, as well as the make, model, and year of your vehicle will also impact your insurance rates. Your rates will also be affected by the area where you reside and work, as higher crime rates may cause an increase in rates. Insurance companies will also take into consideration the possibility of using your van because commercial vehicles are typically more expensive to insure.
Check with your insurance provider prior to making any major modifications to your van. This could affect the price of your policy. The cost of insurance could also rise if you add any extras that aren't included in the standard vehicle. A Thatcham Category 2 approved dash camera is a simple way to deter thieves since they'll be cautious before attempting to gain entry into.
Insurance is a crucial aspect of the van's life. It protects the tools and other equipment that you keep in your van in the event that they're stolen. You can purchase complete physical damage insurance as well as roadside service plans that cover breakdowns and other emergencies.
When comparing insurance policies, it's important to remember that the cheapest option isn't always the most effective. Compare the coverage limits as well as deductibles and other advantages to find the most appropriate policy for your needs. It is worth looking into gap insurance in addition to comprehensive insurance. This will cover the difference between the value of the van's cash and any outstanding amount on your loan if your van is totalled.