It has been evidently clear that van and tool theft is increasing. This has been made obvious when in London, there were reports of between 200-300 thefts in 2016 alone, with total claims reaching £2.8 million across the country. Reports from Simple Business (insert link) said that some of the hardest hit areas of theft were Bristol and Reading.
The Federation of Master Builders reported that 51% of all builders have had their tools or van stolen. Out of those nearly 46% have had their side door panel prised open in order for the content to be take. Also highlighted was the fact that 22% of people had locks picked and 23% had windows smashed. As well as the fact that there is a van break in nearly every 23 minutes. NAPIT insurance stated that the average claim was around £1,626.
Overall a pretty sorry state of affairs, but the good news is there are lots of things that can be done to minimalize the risks.
What can be done?
One of the simplest things that can be done is making sure that windows and doors are properly locked and shut, as well as parking your van with the side door up against a wall, if it is possible.
There are also some other forms of security that could be installed. One option could be setting up some CCTV around your house, or area where your vehicle is parked overnight. You can find loads of different CCTV options online, most electrical retailers will seller them, eg Currys/PC world. It could be one step closer to making sure your tools are well protected.
Installing alarms in your van could also be a great alternative. This way it is likely to put people off trying to break in, especially if you advertise that alarms have been set up. You will also most likely be able to find alarms online, and the quality of the alarm will depend on how much you are wanting to pay.
How self-storage can help!
If your struggling to find the best way to protect your tools, why not consider using self-storage.
This could be a reliable alternative to other security options you may be considering.
You could use it to store larger tools and equipment that you don’t want to be lugging around, or you could keep all your tools at the end of a days work there too.
With self-storage, you could guarantee security, steel containers with secure lock-boxes, as well as CCTV covering all angles of the storage facility.
Don’t be caught out
Make sure you don’t leave it too late, don’t be naïve and think that it won’t happen to you, it could happen to anyone. Make sure you have considered using multiple methods to help prevent theft, as you don’t want to be a moving target. You should consider these options if you haven’t already.
- The easiest thing is to double check yourself, with regards to locking windows and doors, and making sure your parking in a secure location.
- Perhaps if you find yourself with a bit of extra time then you could bring your valuables inside, rather than leaving them in your van.
- Maybe you have a bit of extra cash to spare, and you could invest in some extra security measures such as CCTV or alarm systems.
- Look at how self-storage could answer your issues. They can provide a variety of spaces for different business requirements, with the added advantage of CCTV and secure access.
