How to Make Your Van Secure
A van is an asset that can transport expensive equipment and tools. Security for your van should be a top priority, and there are many strategies you can use to ward off thieves and keep your tools safe.
Slamlocks lock doors as soon as they are closed, which can be useful for couriers who do frequent short trips or are prone to not locking their vans. Other improvements include security stickers, covering or tinting windows and installing the tool vault with a lockable feature.
Security locks
With the increasing number of vans utilized as a means of transportation as well as a mobile storage unit, it is vital to secure their contents from theft. The proper security measures for your van will deter criminals while protecting your belongings. This will allow you to travel in peace.
The door locks of the van are the first line in defence. They secure the doors and block the entry of anyone who is not authorized. ford van security door locks thekeylab.co.uk , which are usually installed by the manufacturer, offer an adequate level of security however they are easily manipulated by a few determined thieves. Upgrade to more secure locks that are resistant to drilling, cutting, and picking is an investment in peace of mind.
The factors to consider when selecting a van lock include the material and build quality, as well as whether it's Thatcham-approved. This ensures that the lock is of top quality and is more difficult to compromise. Other important aspects to consider are the slamlock lock system, which automatically locks load area doors upon closure and requires a key to open which is ideal for couriers who might not lock their vans between deliveries. The hook lock is a different option that strengthens the side and rear doors to prevent 'peel-and-steal' attacks.
Regularly cleaning and lubricating your van locks is also vital to ensure that the lock functions properly and ensure the integrity of the mechanism. This will help prevent rust and corrosion and ensure smooth operation. Regular inspections allow you to detect any signs of wear or damage and fix them promptly, to prevent security vulnerabilities from arising.
Installing the right security system can help you save money on van insurance. Many insurers recognise the value of robust security solutions providing favorable terms and additional coverage options in return.
Slamlocks
The strengthening of your van's lock is one of the most effective ways to deter robbers. Installing high-strength locks or slam locks will make your van's door more secure and less difficult to break into. This is especially crucial if you plan to use your van to transport expensive tools 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. This means it's much less likely to be tampered with which makes it ideal for couriers or tradespeople who are constantly in and out of their van throughout the day long and forget to lock up after each trip. It also helps combat the issue of opportunistic theft which is when thieves just open the lock on your vehicle and then take off with whatever they can get their hands on - which often includes the tools you require to do your job.
There are many different types of slamlocks to choose from. Some offer extra security features like anti-drill and anti-pick technology, or a steelplate which blocks drilling. Certain locks are specifically designed for uses, like the ones used by multidrop drivers or those who transport a lot of valuable goods.
Deadlocks are an alternative for those who require more protection than what is offered by a slamlock. They function independently of the original locking mechanism of the manufacturer and can only be opened by a key supplied with full control by the driver. You can also buy hook locks, which operates exactly the same way, but provides additional security by using a deadlocking hook bolt which connects to an opposing body part and is operated using the supplied key under complete control of the driver.
Dashboard cameras
Install a dash camera in your vehicle if you want it to be more secure and safer. These cameras can help you avoid accidents and collisions when driving, and can also help in showing your innocence in the event of an accident or traffic offense. These cameras function by converting light signals into electrical signals, and then changing those signals into digital information. They can be powered by your car's battery, or a lighter for your cigarette.
A lot of dashboard cameras on the market come with SD cards or flash drives to record. These devices erase old footage in order to make room for new videos. However they can be upgraded to support larger memory cards if more video data is required. Certain dashboard cameras come with cloud storage, removing the necessity for memory card storage. These dashboard cameras are connected to a smartphone, a Wi-Fi network or both and upload data at various times.
Another thing to take into consideration is whether the camera is wireless or hard wired. Hardwired cameras are less vulnerable to interference from cellular networks and other sources. They are also more durable, and some are able to endure the elements.
Some vans come with dual dash cameras which can record video from both the front and back of the vehicle. This is useful when you reverse in tight spaces or while parking. Some cameras have night vision that can make images appear brighter in low-light conditions and improve visibility for drivers. Many van owners choose to add this feature to their systems. Some dashboard cams can be remotely monitored, and this can be an immense benefit for van dwellers who are often away from their vehicles.
Alarms
Van life has become increasingly popular for those who love to travel and explore - but it's not without its risks. People who reside in vehicles are frequently at risk of theft. Thieves may attack the vehicle and its contents. There are a variety of ways to protect your vehicle and its contents, but one of the most effective is to install an alarm system. These alarm systems can be linked to your keypad so that you will be alerted in the event of a burglary. These systems can also reduce the cost of insurance. This could save you thousands of dollars over the course of your van.
A good alarm system should have a base station, keypad and entry sensors to guard against door peal. Some alarm systems have an inbuilt motion sensor that detects movement within your van. The alarm will send an alert to you phone. This can be a powerful deterrent for anyone who might be a target and can aid in identifying the criminal before they get to them.
Installing deadlocks on all of your doors is an excellent method to ensure your van is secure. These locks require keys and are more difficult to manipulate than standard locks. A good option is to choose a lock capable of being operated using an app for smartphones, so you can check on your van while away.
A lot of van alarms are fitted with an engine immobilizer, that will shut down your vehicle's engine if the wrong key is used to start it. This is a sensible step to do, but it's not enough to stop a thief determined to taking away the entire engine. An alternative is to have a low-power tracker which stops the engine from starting and will notify you of your vehicle's location when it is being moved.
Insurance
Vans are a vital source for many businesses, and the security of their contents is a top concern. A van security system will give peace of mind and lower insurance costs. Insurers take into account the security measures implemented by van owners when calculating premiums.
The year, make, and model of your van will affect the cost of insurance and your driving record. The area where you reside and work will also impact your rates since higher crime rates could result in higher rates. Insurance providers will also consider the possibility of using your van because commercial vehicles are generally more expensive to cover.
Contact your insurance company prior to making any major modifications to your van. This could affect the cost of your insurance. The cost of your insurance will also increase when you add any additional features that aren't part of the standard vehicle. For instance, a Thatcham Category 2 approved dashboard camera is an easy way to deter thieves, as it will make them think twice about trying to break into your vehicle.
Insurance is a crucial aspect of van life. It covers the tools and equipment you keep inside your van in the event they are stolen. You can get comprehensive physical damage protection, as well as roadside assistance plans that take care of breakdowns and other emergencies while you're out on the road.
When comparing insurance policies it's worth bearing in mind that the cheapest option isn't necessarily the best. Compare the coverage limits as well as deductibles and other benefits to find the best policy for your needs. It's worth considering gap coverage in addition to comprehensive insurance. It will pay the difference between the cash value of your van and the outstanding balance on your loan, in the event of a total loss to your vehicle.