Advice to Prevent Thieving from Vans

I recently received the following useful list of tips about van security from Stephen Armson-Smith, the police crime prevention expert covering the Braintree and Uttlesford District in Essex.

What Stephen has to say is important for van users everywhere, not just Essex.

Stephen’s advice:

Vans are being entered and broken into at the moment in Essex and tools are being stolen, so if you own a van or know a neighbour, friend or workmate who owns/uses one please make them aware about this current possibility of theft.

Think about security. If you have tools on board remove them overnight if possible. Also, make a point of marking your equipment, both overtly and covertly.

Please heed the following advice:

• DON’T tempt thieves by leaving items on display.
• DO clean the sat-nav ring off the windscreen.
• DO turn a device’s Bluetooth off if it’s left in the vehicle, because it can be detected when left on.
• DO lock your vehicle at all times, close windows, and set the alarm, even when parked on your driveway or when carrying out work elsewhere.
• DO park a van with its rear doors up against garage doors, fences and walls to prevent access.
• DO NOT just press the button on your fob to lock it – Look at your van to see the lights flash etc to confirm locking. Someone may be nearby with a “remote blocker” to stop your car from locking.
• DO try to park in a secure, well lit area where possible. If using a car park of a commercial building try to park within view of the reception, or in view of a CCTV camera. If staying in a hotel overnight try to park your van in view of your room.
• DO mark tools and property visibly with your postcode and house number, and consider products such as CRE Mark, Selecta DNA and Smart Water.
• DO register serial numbers of your property for free on www.immobilise.com Please visit the website for more information.
• DO consider having additional security door locks fitted. They will make it harder for the thief to open the doors and work as a great visual deterrent.
• DO consider having a safe box secured within the vehicle and keep it locked.
• DO consider a battery powered PIR alarm that calls you on the mobile phone when activated. Whilst they are intended for sheds they work just as well in a van.
• If using a public car park – Try to use a “Parkmark” approved car park  www.parkmark.co.uk
• Empty your van before someone else does.
• For further crime prevention advice in Essex see https://www.essex.police.uk/advice/your-property/vehicles/  or dial 101 and ask for your local Crime Prevention Officer.
• If you know who is committing crime call 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111
• Further general advice about vehicle security is available on The Crime Prevention Website