Keeping your lorry safe

Follow these tips and stop thieves in their tracks. 

Be secure 

• When you leave your vehicle, always lock it and take your keys with you. 
• Always make sure your cab and the load compartment are secure 
• When loading or unloading, lock the cab 
• When driving, lock the load compartment 
• Make sure all security devices are activated.   

If you keep the lorry keys when you're not at work: 

• Make sure they can't be identified - don't leave anything on the keyring that tells who they belong to or what vehicle they fit 
• Never leave them where strangers can see them 
• Always keep them somewhere safe. 
  

If you keep the keys at the operating centre: 

• Make sure they are in a lockable place out of sight of strangers 
  never use a "hiding place", such as inside the front bumper   

Be aware 

• Avoid talking about loads or routes with other drivers or customers - even over radios or mobile phones 
• Be cautious if you're forced to stop, for example at the scene of an accident or an emergency, or at a police stop.   

During security alerts, follow the advice from the local police. At these times only, make sure: 

• Someone stays with your lorry 
• If you're alone, leave a clearly displayed note explaining where you are, how you can be contacted and when you will be returning to your truck. 
  

Plan ahead 

• Plan your route in advance. That way you won't have to stop to ask directions. If you know exactly where you're going, no-one can mislead you with wrong directions. 
• Be unpredictable in your daily work pattern. 
  

Park safely 

• Use secure vehicle parks wherever you can 
• Try to park your lorry where you can see it while you eat 
• Park with the loading doors close to another vehicle, building or wall 
• Check all around for signs of interference when you return 
• For vulnerable loads, use your Vulnerable Load Card 
• If you see anything suspicious, tell the police on 999 or your employer   

Everyday security 

• Avoid regular routes or stops for newspapers, cigarettes or meals - a recognisable pattern makes you an easier target for thieves 
• Never give lifts 
• Make sure you understand and use the vehicle's security equipment and check it's working properly 
  

When you collect a load: 

• Check that it matches the collection note 
• Make sure it is clear where you are delivering to and who will receive the goods 
• Get a contact number if you can. 
  

When you deliver a load: 

• Check that quantities and weights match the collection and delivery notes 
• Make sure you are delivering to the right place - check collection and delivery against the notes 
• If delivery instructions are changed, get written confirmation of the changes from senior staff at the delivery address or from your employer 
  

Protect your belongings 

• Hide personal property from view 
• Make sure you have adequate insurance 
• Follow the company's advice about personal property security 
  

Company security 

Your employer's security instructions and procedures are designed to protect your vehicle and its load. Follow them at all times. If you don't, your employer could take disciplinary action.