We get a lot of questions about rvan security and how owners can protect their van and any tools inside. One of the main questions we are asked is what extra security devices should I fit to my van?
We all like to keep our tools safe and secure but when upgrading our van security, there are two main considerations: are you trying to stop the van from being stolen? Or are you trying to secure your tools?
In the case of all vans, the weak point is the windows. Why would a thief spend time trying to bypass extra locks if all they have to do is smash a window?
There is an expensive option of having a specialised film added to the glass which can reduce the risk of entry being gained through the window, it’s a bit like having bulletproof windows.
Most added security measures could be considered a deterrent, generally it is thought that the average thief is an opportunist, and anything which makes the theft attempt harder or more time consuming may put them off. Even stickers or flashing lights can be regarded as deterrents and can put some thieves off.
But before we get into the details, there are some easy and simple ways to protect your campervan:
Never leave your keys in your van without you in it.
Never. Not even for a moment. This includes de-icing, buying fuel or nipping into a shop. If your van is stolen withe the keys in it. Your insurer won’t pay out.
Keep your keys out of sight
When in your house, keep your keys out of sight and not near unlocked doors or windows.
Keyless fob
If you have keyless car entry then it’s best to keep your fob in a singal blocking pouch. We are going to write a blog post about this in teh near future. This stops thieves using signal amplifiers to unlock your van by replicating the signal given off by your fob.
Lock doors and windows
Sounds obvious doesn’t it! But did you know that nearly half of thefts from vehicles involve an unlocked door? Yes. unlocked doors. So you can get a head start in your van security by simply just locking the doors.
Hide those valuables
Again. Another simple and free security tip. If possible. Don’t leave anything in your van. If you do need to keep items, don’t have them visible especially your tools. A thief won’t know they are empty until they’ve broken in, caused a whole load of damage and mess.
Van Security Devices
There are a range of devices suited to improving the security of your van and we’ve listed a few here with a description of their benefits and downfalls.
Steering Wheel Lock
This highly visual devices lock the steering in place to prevent the vehicle from being driven away. However, with enough time and effort they can be bypassed. They are though a good visual deterrent and let the would be thief know that you’ve considered your van security and that there are more than likely, other layers of security present. We prefer the type of lock that covers the whole steering wheel rather than the cheaper bars that fit through the wheel. But if that’s all you’ve got. Fit it.
Deadlocks
A deadlock is an extra lock fitted to the doors of a vehicle. They require a separate key to be used to open them. Although they provide a robust extra security measure they are only as strong as the van itself. You have to remember to lock them as they operate independently of the vehicles’ central locking. They are good for securing items in hidden away areas of vans such as bikes in an underbed storage area. Again, they are a visual deterrent and show someone sniffing around your pride & joy that you’ve considered your van security.
Aftermarket Vehicle Alarm
Most vehicles will have some sort of factory fitted alarm, By adding an additional system you are in essence upgrading the security features on the vehicle, the more you spend the more you get. Higher end systems provide extra immobilization of the engine and can be linked to phone apps to alert you of a theft attempt. If you park your camper outside your home address and have a house alarm it’s a good idea to link the vehicle to your home system, make the camper another zone.
Pedal Box Lock
A simple but effective visual deterrent that locks the pedals in a box preventing the vehicle from being started or driven away. Some makes even have an area to secure personal items such as phones or wallets, like a safe.
Wheel Clamp/Lock
By locking a wheel and preventing it from turning this device prevents the vehicle from being driven away after a theft attempt.
Tracker
Some insurance companies give a discount on premiums if a GPS tracking device is fitted to your camper. Although this will aid in the recovery of the vehicle after it has been stolen it will not normally prevent a theft attempt. The more expensive the tracker and subscriptions the more features you will get. Top of the range devices can remotely switch off engines (when safe to do so) and usually require driver id fobs before the vehicle will start. Check with your insurance company to fit the required device which meets their standard.
The route which you decide to take to protect your camper is a personal choice and depends on how you are going to use it and what level of extra protection you can afford.
Window Security Film
Similar to tinted film, you can buy different grades of film from anti smash to anti terrorist. At KG Key Services we firmly believe that your windows are the biggest risk when it comes to van security as all a thief has to do is smash a window. Why would they bother with complicated locks when all it takes is a couple of hits and they are in. It’s worth paying for the strongest film you can find. If your windows are already tinted, you can buy transparent or lightly tinted window film so you don’t end up with windows that are too dark.
Some benefits of security window film:
- It can double the strength of your windows
- Available in a range of tints from transparent to gangster
- Window films help hold any shards in place if the window is broken making it much harder for a thief to climb through