How to prevent your van being broken into

How to prevent your van being broken into

Van Owner Security Checklist

Protect your van. Protect your tools. Protect your livelihood.

Before You Leave Your Van

☐ Lock all doors every time you leave the vehicle, even for a few minutes. [met.police.uk], [police.uk]

☐ Check that windows and sunroofs are fully closed. [met.police.uk], [police.uk]

☐ Remove wallets, phones, laptops, keys and personal belongings. [met.police.uk], [police.uk]

☐ Keep paperwork containing personal or business information out of the vehicle. [met.police.uk]

☐ Ensure valuables are not visible through windows. [met.police.uk], [opendoorhomes.org]

Tools & Equipment

☐ Remove tools whenever possible, especially overnight. Vans carrying tools are a frequent target for thieves. [met.police.uk]

☐ Store remaining tools in a lockable tool chest secured to the van. [met.police.uk]

☐ Mark tools with your postcode or an approved property-marking system. [opendoorhomes.org]

☐ Keep a record of serial numbers, receipts and photographs of valuable equipment. [opendoorhomes.org]

Security Upgrades

☐ Fit additional deadlocks or slam locks to cargo doors. [opendoorhomes.org]

☐ Consider a vehicle alarm and tracking device. [opendoorhomes.org]

☐ Use security screws on number plates. [met.police.uk], [police.uk]

☐ Secure roof racks, ladders and external storage with approved locks. [met.police.uk]

Parking Safely

☐ Park in a well-lit area. [opendoorhomes.org]

☐ Choose locations covered by CCTV where possible. [opendoorhomes.org]

☐ At home, park on a driveway and use motion-activated lighting. [opendoorhomes.org]

☐ Position rear or side doors against a wall, fence or obstacle when practical. (Good crime-prevention practice.)

Before Bed (Night-Time Check)

☐ Van locked.

☐ Windows closed.

☐ Tools removed or secured.

☐ Alarm activated.

☐ Keys stored securely inside the property.

☐ Valuables removed from sight.

Remember the Met's Simple Message

LOCK IT • EMPTY IT • HIDE IT • LIGHT IT

Lock it: Secure all doors and windows. [met.police.uk], [police.uk]

Empty it: Remove tools and valuables whenever possible. [met.police.uk]

Hide it: Leave no signs that valuables may be inside. [met.police.uk], [opendoorhomes.org]

Light it: Park in well-lit, visible locations. [opendoorhomes.org]

A van with no visible valuables and strong security measures is far less attractive to thieves.