Recent rend in Theft of Ford Transit vans

Police are seeing a rise in the theft of Ford Transit vans recently, so we are reminding van owners to keep their vans secure at all times. Below is some security advice from Secured by Design:

Don't Leave Valuables on Show: It might sound obvious but leaving items on show is an invitation to the opportunist criminal - mobile phones, satnavs and mounts, power leads, money, wallets, handbags, sunglasses, sports clothing and bags - should be removed from the vehicle or hidden well out of sight.

Hide Keys & Fobs : Keys and ignition fobs should be kept safe and out of sight and reach. A common way to steal a vehicle is to take the keys or ignition fob, either when left in the vehicle, so never leave them in the vehicle, even if it is unattended for a moment. When at home ensure that your keys or ignition fob are kept well away from windows or doors so that they cannot be seen by a potential thief, and never leave them close to the front door where they can be accessed through letterboxes.

Lock Doors & Close Windows! : Always lock and close the windows of your vehicle when unattended, be this on the drive, the petrol station forecourt, when de-icing your vehicle in the winter or when getting a ticket to park. An unlocked vehicle is the easiest to steal or steal from If your vehicle is not fitted with a manufacturers’ fitted alarm and/or immobiliser, consider installing an approved system. Most new vehicles come with one fitted, you can find out more from the Thatcham Research Centre. The Thatcham Research Consumer Security Rating assesses a new vehicle’s all-round security.

Install a Tracker: Tracker systems can increase the recovery of your van if it is stolen. Many systems activate once the van is stolen and track the car via GPS and other systems. SBD have several members which specialise in this area and can advise on the best system and fitting of the product for your vehicle type.

Use Physical Security: Fit theft-resistant number plate fittings. Stolen number plates are commonly used to hide the identity of stolen vehicles. Use one-way clutch head screws to secure number plates. Physical security products such as a steering wheel lock or a lock that fits over the gear lever still act as a good deterrent. Alternatively, a security box can be fitted over the pedals to prevent thefts when the vehicle is parked up. Where possible, keep your van in a garage. Parking your vehicle out of view is one of the best ways to prevent opportunist theft.

Fit a Garage Alarm: If you have a house alarm system, consider connecting it to the garage. Another option is to park your van on a drive. If your drive has gates, consider closing them at night or when you are not using your vehicle.

Attached is a leaflet with further advice. 

As always, keep safe out there!