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On average a commercial vehicle is broken into somewhere in the U.K.
every five minutes – and the owner is totally fed up!
Seriously though, thefts of and from vans and other commercial vehicles is not a joke. Police Forces will admit that this type of crime represents a huge problem in all areas of the country and very few are detected. Vast quantities of tools and equipment are taken from tradesmen who then have to replace them in order to continue to make a living. This almost invariably entails the victim having to make a claim on their insurance policy, often resulting in loss of no claims bonus, increased premiums and in extreme, repeat cases, withdrawal of cover.
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Not only does the loser have the extra problem of replacing the property stolen, it can also mean that contracts fall behind, workforce morale suffers and even bankruptcy may threaten some small businesses.
Crime Reduction Advisors agree that the majority of these thefts could have been prevented. |
There is little doubt that many of these crimes are committed by what the Police refer to as opportunists criminals who always have an eye open for a chance to steal. Most of the time they don't care what they take, but they don't want to have to work too hard for it – and they don’t strike just once.
If they succeed in taking your tools, they know you will have to replace them and they will be back! So the best advice for preventing or reducing crime is to simply remove the opportunities. Some tips are as follows:
- When not in use, the vehicle should whenever possible be locked in a secure compound or even better, a garage. If this is not an option, the vehicle should be left in an open, well lit area where it will be clearly visible to nearby houses.
- Ideally, nothing should be left in an unattended vehicle to attract a criminal. It is acknowledged that it is not always practical or possible for a tradesman to remove all the tools and equipment every night after work. In these cases, the van owner should seriously consider installing an internal, lockable high security cage or safe within the load area of the van. This, together with an alarm system makes theft much more difficult and more often than not, the criminal just won't bother.
- Whenever and wherever the vehicle is left unattended – even for a minute, it must be locked. Nothing should be left visible to tempt the thief.
- There are many electronic anti-theft devices available. The vehicle should be fitted with an electronic immobiliser, and an alarm system. These should be professionally installed and must meet Thatcham (the Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre) standards. Insurance companies often offer substantial discounts on the cost of a policy where extra security has been fitted, but enquire with your insurer to establish their criteria.
- These days satellite tracking devices are becoming a common security measure fitted to many commercial vehicles. These ensure that a vehicle can be quickly traced and recovered if it is stolen.
- Finally, be discreet about the contents of your van. Don't advertise the fact that it has a high value, and whatever security devices you have, make sure you use them.
Avoid becoming a vehicle crime statistic by adopting a sensible and realistic approach to the security of your assets. If you need further advice, most Police Forces have a Crime Prevention Officer who will be happy to help. |
