How to Make Your Van Secure
A van is a valuable asset that can transport expensive tools and equipment. Security for your van should be a top priority, and there are many strategies you can use to deter thieves and keep your tools safe.
Slamlocks locks doors once you close them, which can be beneficial for couriers who make short drops or are prone to not locking the van. Other options include a security sticker covering or tinting the windows and fitting a lockable tools vault.
Security locks
It is important to protect the contents of vans because they serve as a vehicle for transportation and storage on the move. The proper van security measures will deter criminals while also protecting your belongings. This allows you to travel with confidence.
The van's door locks are the first line in defence. They protect the doors and ward off unauthorized entry. Locks that are standard, usually installed by the manufacturer, provide an adequate level of security but can be easily bypassed by a few determined thieves. Upgrading to more advanced security locks that are immune to drilling, cutting, and picking is a good investment in peace of mind.
When choosing a vanlock, you should consider the material, build quality and whether it is Thatcham-approved. This ensures that the lock is high-quality and more difficult to compromise. Other important considerations are the slamlock lock system, which automatically locks the doors to the load area after closure and requires the use of a key to open them which is ideal for couriers who might forget to lock their van between deliveries. Another option is the hook lock that provides reinforcement to doors on the rear and side and helps prevent 'peel and steal' attacks.
It is essential to clean and lubricate your van locks in order to maintain their functionality and the strength of the mechanism. This prevents rust and corrosion and helps ensure smooth operation. Regular inspections help you detect any signs of wear or damage and address them promptly, to prevent security vulnerabilities from arising.
In addition to improving the overall security of your vehicle, fitting the right security system can save you money on your van insurance. van security lock offer favourable terms for the purchase of robust security solutions.
Slamlocks
One of the most effective methods to stop thieves is by strengthening the locks on your van. Installing high-strength locks or slam locks will make your van's door more secure and harder to break into. This is especially important if you use your van to transport expensive equipment or valuable cargo.
The lock is activated automatically once your door is shut. It doesn't require you to press any keys to activate the mechanism. It's less likely to be tampered and is ideal for courier drivers and tradespeople who are in and out of their vans throughout the day. They might overlook locking it after each trip. It also helps to combat the problem of opportunistic theft that occurs when thieves unlock your vehicle's lock and then take off with whatever they can get their hands on that includes the tools needed for your job.
There are many different kinds of slam locks available, with some offering extra security features, such as anti-drill and anti-pick technology or a steel plate that prevents drilling attacks. Certain locks are specifically designed for applications, such as those used by multidrop drivers and those who transport a lot of valuable items.
Deadlocks are a good alternative for those who require more security than a slamlock can provide. These locks function independently of the locking mechanism that came from the manufacturer and are be unlocked only by the driver using the key provided. You can also buy hooklocks, which function in the same manner but offers additional security through a deadlocking bolt that engages in an opposing section of the body and is operated by the supplied key.
Dashboard cameras
If you're looking to make your vehicle more secure and secure you should consider installing a dash cam. These cameras can be used to prevent accidents and collisions when driving. They can also prove your innocence in the case of an accident or traffic infraction. These cameras function by converting light that is incoming into electrical signals, and then converting the signals into digital information. These can be powered either via the battery of your car or by the cigarette lighter.
A majority of the dashboard cameras that are available have SD cards or flash drives to save recordings. These devices typically erase old footage to create space for new recordings, however they can be upgraded with memory cards with high capacity for those who want to save more video data. Certain dashboard cameras also have cloud storage capabilities, which eliminate the necessity for memory cards. These dashboard cams connect to a smartphone, Wi-Fi network or both, and can upload data at various times.
Another feature to consider is whether the camera is wired or wireless. Hard-wired models are less susceptible to interference from cell networks and other sources. They are also more durable and certain models are able to withstand the weather.
Some vans are equipped with dual dash cams that can capture footage from both the front and rear of the vehicle. This is useful when reversing into tight spaces or while parking. Some cameras have night vision that can brighten images in low-light conditions and increase visibility for drivers. Many van owners choose to add this feature to their systems. Some dashboard cameras can be remotely monitored. This can be a great benefit for van dwellers that spend long periods of time away from their vehicles.
Alarms
Van life is becoming increasingly popular among those who enjoy traveling and exploring However, it comes with its own risks. People who live in their vehicles are often at risk of thieves who might attack their vehicle and its contents. There are a number of ways to protect your vehicle and its cargo, but one of the best is an alarm system. Alarm systems can be linked to your keypad so you'll be alerted in the event of a break-in. They also help reduce insurance premiums, which can save you a fortune over the lifetime of your van.
A good alarm system will come with the base station, a keypads and entry sensors that protect against door peal. Some alarms even have a built-in motion sensor that will detect movement inside your van and notify your phone. This is a fantastic way to deter potential thieves and even help you catch them before they strike.
Installing deadlocks on all of your doors is an excellent way to ensure the security of your van. These locks require keys and are more difficult to manipulate than regular locks. You can also get locks that can be operated via a smartphone application. This will allow you to check on your van while you are away.
Many van alarms also come with an engine immobilizer that disables the vehicle's motor in the event that you use the wrong key to start it. This is a good measure to take, but it won't stop a thief determined to taking the entire engine. It is best to utilize a low-power tracker which will stop the engine from starting and send you the location of your vehicle when it is moved.
Insurance
Vans are an essential source for many businesses, and the security of their contents is of paramount importance. A van security system can provide peace of mind and reduce the cost of insurance. Insurance companies take into consideration the security measures taken by van owners when calculating premiums.
Your driving history, as well as the make, model, and year of your van will also impact your insurance rates. Your rates are also affected by the location in which you reside and work, as higher crime rates may cause an increase in premiums. Insurance companies may also take into account the use of your vehicle since commercial vehicles are typically more expensive to insure.
If you're planning to make any major changes to your van it's essential to talk with your insurer beforehand since this could have an impact on the cost of your policy. The cost of insurance could also rise if you add any extras that aren't part of the standard vehicle. A Thatcham Category 2 -approved dash camera is an easy way to deter vandals, as they will 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 inside your van in the event they are stolen. You can obtain complete physical damage protection as well as roadside assistance plans to take care of breakdowns and other emergencies while you're driving.
When comparing insurance policies it's important to remember that the cheapest policy isn't always the most effective. Compare the limits of coverage as well as deductibles and other benefits to determine the most suitable policy that meets your needs. It's worth considering gap coverage in addition to comprehensive insurance. It will pay the difference between your cash value of your van and the outstanding balance on your loan, in the event that your vehicle is destroyed.