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How to Protect Your Van from Thieves

How to Protect Your Van from Thieves

How to protect your van from theft.

Van theft is a huge issue in the U.K. Numbers are growing every year with over 10 cases reported every day.  Data suggests that over 98% of tradespeople are concerned about tool or vehicle theft. Unfortunately this isn't surprising with the thousands of tools stolen every day. Stolen tools and damaged vans aren't just problematic for you and your business, it also causes a lot of issues for your clients. So, what can you do to prevent yourself becoming a victim? Luckily, there are a few simple things you can do to give your van the best chance of staying untouched. We have compiled a list of 5 things to check to help you protect your van from thieves.  

 

1. Always Lock Your Van Doors.

It seems obvious, but it can be tempting to leave your van unlocked when you nip into the petrol station or grab a coffee. However, it’s just not worth the risk. Many thefts are carried out by chancers and opportunists. Don’t give them the easy option. To protect your van from thieves, always make sure your van is securely locked at all times. Not only should you ensure that the driver door lock is engaged, but you shouldn’t forget the passenger side and any side or rear doors. If you have a key fob that dead locks all the doors at once, remember to use it! You could even employ the use of the child locks for that extra level of security from van high jacking’s. Another top tip is to use an additional security measure such as a steering wheel lock. This adds another layer of protection. Deploying different anti-theft devices is a good idea. The harder your van is to steal, the more likely any potential opportunistic thieves will not chance it.  

van theft - Mr Central Heating  

 

2. Remove the Tools from Your Van at Night.

This has become increasingly common in recent years due to the rise in tool theft. Simple but effective. If you have anything expensive in your van including tools and equipment, the best thing to do is bring those valuable tools inside every night. Yes, it can be a pain when you’ve had a long day at work, but it just isn't worth the risk. Another great thing you can do is get a sign or bumper sticker. Informing anyone looking that there are no valuables or expensive tools left in the vehicle overnight can be the cheapest and simpliest deterrent. This will deter any potential thefts and help you avoid any unnecessary damage to your van. You can also fit secure storage boxes in your van if it is impractical to remove every expensive item from your van.  

 

3. Use Van Security & Alarm Warning Signs.

One of the best ways to protect your van from thieves is by installing an alarm. They might be unsightly but it makes it clear if your van has a working alarm and immobiliser. Most new vans will come with some form of protection or security features, but if it doesn’t then we’d thoroughly recommend getting a vehicle alarm system installed. It would be a small investment in relation to what you can lose and will serve as a deterrent to chancers and thieves. Fitting a Thatcham rated alarm may also get you a discount on your van insurance premium from your insurers. It also stops you having to make an insurance claim in the first place! Another way to reduce your insurance costs is fitting a GPS tracking system which allows the police to track down stolen vehicles very quickly if the worst happens and your van is stolen.  

 

4. Park Sensibly.

Again, it might seem obvious, but please be aware of where you’re parking your van especially in winter when it’s darker earlier. The best place to protect your van from thieves is in a locked garage. If you do not have access to a garage, you should always strive to leave your vehicle in a well-lit place. It would be best to park close to houses and other cars. Thieves will look for places where they won’t be disturbed, so don’t give them the opportunity. You can make it physically harder for people to access your van by parking close to walls/bollards and other cars. Although simple, it might make the job seem less appealing if they have to navigate around obstacles where they risk damaging the vehicle further.   Nest Cam Outdoor mr Central Heating  

 

5. Install a Great Home Security System.

If you’ve ever had a vehicle targeted outside your home or on your drive (or even a break in at home) it can feel very violating. However, fear not, we have the perfect solution. Currently, Mr Central Heating is working with Google for the Nest Home Security Month campaign. This focuses on the home security and safety of our customers. We have some great deals on security cameras, video doorbells and more. The Google Nest Cam, Outdoor Security Camera has some great features which are perfect for keeping an eye on your home. These features include; helpful alerts to when sensors have been triggered, activity zones with nest aware, and night vision. With the hand app, you can see your driveway at any time of the day on your phone, wherever you are, making for great peace of mind.  For more information on these CCTV products and more, just visit our website today.  

 

Hopefully, this has given you some ideas to help you protect your livelihood as we go into the colder and darker months of the year. Keep your home and belongings safe for longer with Mr Central Heating.  

 

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