Standard Van Security Not Deterring Van Theft
Tracker Say Number of Stolen Vans Without Keys Has Increased.
Of the stolen vans that were then recovered by Tracker in 2018, the vast majority (89%) were taken without the owner’s keys. This is up from 82% the previous year.
Perhaps rather more tellingly is that the hugely popular Ford Transit was the most stolen and recovered van, whilst the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter weren’t far behind. Although it is worth noting here, that these figures could be somewhat flooded by the sheer numbers of them on the road of course.
Still, the trend is worrying and Clive Wain, head of police liaison at Tracker said –
“In 2018, our analysis shows that nearly half a million pounds worth of vans were stolen and recovered by Tracker,”
“Keyless entry technology is becoming the norm in the LCV market, but thieves are constantly finding new ways to exploit weaknesses in modern security systems, which is leading to a rise in van thefts.”
The Need For Added Security
So if the factory standard security measures are not enough, what else can be done? Well, Tracker recommends using additional deadlocks and steel-clad locks, as standard locks are easy for thieves to pick. Slam locks ensure a door locks every time it’s closed – ideal for quick stops, it said.
Tracker also suggests that fleet operators should reinforce doors to stop thieves prising open sliding doors by adding an extra lock at the top or reinforcing the top of the doors.
Furthermore, fleets could add extra alarms to vans and use immobilisers, make sure tools are removed from vans overnight and install a tracking device to help police recover a stolen van and close the net on thieves, it says.
Wain made some very valid points when he added;
“SMEs need to think about protecting their vans because that ultimately protects their bottom line. Don’t just rely on the security technology that comes as standard with a new van, take additional steps to deter criminals from stealing your livelihood.
“Although installing a tracking device won’t stop a van being stolen, it does significantly increase the chances of police locating and recovering it, minimising the impact of theft on a business.”
Over £534 million worth of stolen vehicles has been recovered by Tracker working with the police and continues to recover on average £1 million worth of stolen vehicles each month.
Regardless of the size of your business, having your vehicles stolen will have a huge impact on your business meeting it’s demands. If you would like a free review of your fleets security set-up then please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
