Cars, trucks and motorcycles are easy targets for thieves, with motor vehicle theft ranking as the third most common US property crime. Statistics from 2020 reveal that criminals broke into 810,400 vehicles, a figure that shot up 11.8% from the year before, in 2019. 

For police officers or other security personnel who carry a firearm on their person, they also have to contend with the multi-layered issue of protecting their vehicle and securing their firearms safely in their vehicle. Most of the steps security leaders can take to protect their vehicle and valuables involve traditional measures, but don’t neglect to investigate the latest technologies designed to prevent theft. 

Effective physical methods to secure firearms within vehicles

When it comes to protecting a car and the valuables inside it, physical safeguards are still the first line of defense. Before leaving the car, make sure to lock the vehicle, secure the keys and make sure to close and lock all windows, sunroofs and doors. 

Parking lots should be well-lit and visible from a distance of 20 feet or more. When parking elsewhere, it’s important to park in a way that thieves cannot easily break into your car without being noticed.

The most effective physical means of protecting firearms and valuables inside your locked car is an in-vehicle safe. These safes can be fully installed in almost any car, truck, and motorcycle. If firearm-carrying employees drive company vehicles, there should be a safe space to store them when needed. 

Advancements in vehicle security technologies

When combined with physical security measures, electronic security devices can be highly effective. Today, a number of new vehicles come equipped with a keyless ignition or remote starting capabilities from the factory, but many lack this convenience. This safety feature can be integrated into almost any vehicle through a variety of aftermarket kits. 

Some kits incorporate the added bonus of alarm systems that will allow an individual to lock and unlock the doors and check the alarm. Thieves can gain access to a car without having the keys in several ways, but keyless ignition prevents anyone from driving away without physical possession of the remote starter.

In the event that a car or truck is stolen, vehicle-tracking technology enables security leaders to track it. GPS tracking systems, emergency response systems and vehicle monitoring devices are all different types of tracking systems available. 

Emergency Response Systems work similarly to GPS tracking systems. However, these systems transmit different data. In the event of an accident, they provide first responders with information about the vehicle’s location and the condition of passengers.

Keyless ignition and vehicle tracking technology are just two examples of electronic security devices that make it harder for smash-and-grab criminals to steal a car or the firearms inside. Both low-tech physical measures and high-tech advances offer peace of mind by making a vehicle and its contents a less tempting target.