Van drivers are being urged to step up security as darker evenings and cold weather bring a spike in tool thefts across the UK. Motoring experts at LeaseLoco are warning that opportunistic thieves often target work vans left in the dark overnight, with stolen tools not only causing financial loss but also leaving tradespeople unable to work. Statistics show that tool theft increases during the winter months, when shorter VAN DRIVERS WARNED OF RISING TOOL THEFTS THIS WINTER – EXPERTS SHARE TIPS TO KEEP VEHICLES SECURE
daylight hours give criminals more cover, and almost half of all reported cases (49%) involve tools stolen from vans in particular*. Experts say that work vans left overnight on driveways or building sites are prime targets, particularly when they display company branding or contain visible equipment. Thieves often strike in the early hours, using lock-picking tools or even cutting through doors to gain access. Once stolen, power tools are frequently resold online or at car boot sales**, often making recovery impossible. Many victims find that even when items are insured, the loss of work and time spent replacing tools can have a major financial impact. But there are measures van drivers can take to reduce the risk of theft. Simple steps such as removing tools from the vehicle overnight, fitting highsecurity locks, or installing visible alarms and tracking devices can make vans far less appealing to criminals. John Wilmot, CEO of van leasing deals comparison site LeaseLoco.com said: “Winter can be a tough time for van drivers, and thieves know it.
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