Tool theft is a huge problem in the UK, with the Federation of Master Builders revealing the shocking reality that more than three quarters of UK builders have had their tools stolen in the past. The impact of these tool thefts is also pushing up the cost of insurance claims, with the cost of claims for the theft of tools from vans increasing by 55 per cent in just the past year according to specialist insurance provider ECIC.
Whilst tool theft is very common, there are a number of simple steps that you can take to keep your tools secure.
Lock up securely
The best thing you can do to prevent theft from your van is to remove tools when you aren’t using them, storing them inside a garage, outbuilding or your home, and securing them with ground or wall anchors and locking points. Linking power tools together with security defender cables and securing ladders with a chain makes it harder for a thief to take your tools.
To further tighten up the security of your van or outbuilding, use a heavy duty padlock to guard against common theft tactics, and look for padlocks that are made from high-strength and long-lasting materials, such as Yale’s new range of padlocks, that will withstand corrosion and elemental wear and tear. In addition, you can also look to use smaller padlocks to secure any toolboxes or bags, providing an additional layer of protection for your property.
Utilise additional security systems
Whether you’re storing your tools in your home, garage or outbuilding, one of the best deterrents that you can use is an alarm. According to a survey from Which?, burglar alarms were the number one thing that would put off a potential thief, tied with a dog on the property.
Ensure that the your home alarm is in good working order, and consider securing any outbuildings where tools are stored with an alarm system, such as the Yale Shed & Garage Alarm, that is designed to secure outbuildings.
Alternatively, you can invest in smart security solutions that provide you with peace of mind even when you’re away from home, such as the Sync Smart Home Alarm system, which can cover your outbuildings at a range of up to 200m and will send alerts directly to your smart phone at any time, even whilst you’re away from home.
In addition to alarms, you can also consider fitting a CCTV system, as a network of visible CCTV cameras will help to create an enhanced deterrent when combined with an alarm. For this purpose, you could look to fit a system such as the HD1080 Smart CCTV Camera System, which provides a live-streamed video feed straight to your smartphone.
If you’re looking for a smaller system that will just keep an eye on your van or your tools inside an outbuilding or garage, then you could consider fitting the All-In-One Outdoor Camera, which features motion-detection, a spotlight and alarm, a two-way microphone and live feed streaming straight to your smart phone.
These smart systems will provide an extra layer of security to your property and provide you with the peace of mind that your tools and your home are protected, even when you aren’t around to keep an eye on them.
To find out more about Yale’s range of security solutions visit yale.co.uk
