Securing vehicles over Christmas

Feb. 5, 2012 - PRLog -- As most delivery and dispatch centres prepare for the winter festivities, thoughts will be turning to stepping up security. HGV Express (http://www.hgvexpress.co.uk/) can offer the following security advice for all professional drivers, whether qualified professionals or those studying in truck driver training schools.

Over the Christmas period there are increased attacks on all kinds of goods vehicles, due to the increased demand for cheap goods, whether it is in markets or through arranged criminal transactions. This time of year is well known for bringing a crime wave to the HGV and LGV industries. Drivers receive training as part of their HGV training, but it is well worth reminding yourself for the new season.

•   Be vigilant. When parking, unloading or finding an overnight stay, keep an eye open for any suspicious activity and try to stay to organized or well lit places. Remote lay-bys are notoriously high risk overnight stopping places, and being visible to the public and other houses or businesses will deter thieves.
•   Show that you are not carrying goods. If you are driving an empty vehicle, and have to make a long stop, perhaps overnight, open one door at the rear of the vehicle if possible, or remove part of a tarpaulin, to show thieves that you are not a valid target.
•   Be aware of any organised crime in your local area and ask local police or dispatch officers if there are any criminal activities that you should be aware of. If you take your vehicle home at night, or regularly use the same stopping point, you may be exposed to local thieves.
•   Remember and revise any safety advice given during your LGV or HGV training. It could be specific to your vehicle type or business. Ask your employer if they have any safety rules or ideas that could benefit vehicle or driver security.
•   Use any tools at your disposal to prevent crime. If you have any safety devices, use them, if you are offered a partner on a long trip or a safe stopover point make the most of the opportunity. Lock doors and windows, keep keys safe and make sure that the best locks and bolts possible are used.
•   Plan your routes and stopovers before setting off. Make sure you do not always use the same overnight stops unless they are safe from crime.  
•   Take details of who will be meeting you at each stop or unloading point. If you are approached by someone you do not know or who is unexpected, check with officials or company managers by telephone or radio before commencing unloading.
•   Keep in radio and telephone contact. Keep mobile phones and hand-held radios fully charged in case of an emergency, and make sure that contacts know where you and your goods are at all times.

HGV Express (http://www.hgvexpress.co.uk/) offers vehicle security advice as part of its comprehensive HGV training.