Thefts from Work Vans

Thefts from vans is still a current problem on the area. Below we offer some simple crime prevention advice on what to do when the vehicle is unattended. Current trends show that offenders are using the ‘peal and steal’ or ‘snip and nick’ techniques. This is where side doors are peeled back to gain entry or metal snippers are used to cut holes in the skin of the van in order to gain access to the opening mechanisms or in fact create a hole big enough to climb in. Unless the vehicle is armoured then removing the most valuable items and using extra crime prevention techniques will be the best deterrent.

• Park your vehicle in a secure area (in a garage or behind locked gates, if possible).
• Use extra security devices to make sure the van cannot be moved. Park near to walls or park another vehicle in front of the van if on a drive.
• Use motion detectors inside and outside the van to alert you that someone is nearby. (We know of one local tradesperson that has a simple baby monitor in their van to monitor noise and motion in real-time)
• Park in a well-lit street in easy view of your own or neighbours’ houses.
• Where possible, remove valuable items from the vehicle overnight and store them in a secure place.
• Do not leave tools or equipment on view inside the vehicle.
• Consider fitting an appropriate alarm system, protecting the cabin and load areas.
• Apply a security marking product to power tools and equipment. Alternatively, etch or emboss identifiable marks to these items. Take photos of the valuable items
• Consider installing secure storage containers or lockers in the van to store tools in.
• Ensure that the van doors are securely lockable and consider having suitable deadlocks installed.
• Make sure to physically check that the van doors and windows are locked if you have used the remote to lock the vehicle, even if the feedback indicates the van as locked.
• When visiting businesses, try to park close to the entrance and preferably in the view of CCTV
• Register serial numbers of your property for free on www.immobilise.com . Please visit the website for more information.
• Consider a battery powered PIR alarm that calls you on the mobile phone when activated.
• Be vigilant when unloading. Watch out for people that are taking an interest.
• Call the police on 101 or 999 as appropriate of you see anyone looking suspicious.

Neighbourhood Watch

We have several NHW schemes around the area. To find out more about the Neighbourhood Watch and how you can set up or join a local scheme, please visit – https://www.ourwatch.org.uk/