Winter brings with it the threat of thieves stealing snow removal equipment. Avoid the steep costs that come with theft—including equipment replacement, project delays, higher insurance premiums, and long-term damage to your bottom line—with these tips.
Keep in mind, these are just a few methods to mitigate risk. Each comes at a price, and you'll have to decide what level of risk you are comfortable with as well as the price you are willing to pay for protection.
Document equipment purchases in detail and in duplicate. Key information includes original purchase receipts, year/manufacturer/model, serial numbers, updated photos, any custom modifications that can be used to identify the equipment. Make sure your insurance company has the most updated records in the event you need to file a claim.
Ensure that all vehicles, gates, and doors are locked and that all equipment is stored securely at the end of each workday. This practice not only protects your assets but also creates a routine that can be followed by all employees, enhancing overall security.
Store equipment and vehicle keys in multiple locations in safes or lock boxes.
Take time to look over and update these routines on a regular basis so you can spot any weak spots and make sure everyone on the crew understands why following them matters.
One of the most effective ways to safeguard your snow removal business is by implementing advanced surveillance systems.
Install external cameras focused on main driveways, entrances, and building entry doors.
Strategically position internal cameras to monitor storage areas and key office locations containing valuable electronic equipment and documents.
The visibility of these surveillance systems alone can discourage burglars from targeting your property.
You can take it a step further by leveraging 24/7 monitored alarm systems that provide continuous monitoring of your property, alerting you and authorities to unauthorized access or suspicious activity.
This technology enables you to monitor the location of your vehicles and equipment in real time, providing an added layer of security. In the event of theft, GPS tracking can increase the chances of recovering your stolen assets by providing precise location data to law enforcement.
Erecting solid walls that cannot be seen through can deter potential thieves by obscuring the contents of your yard. Installing gates with secure locking mechanisms and utilizing barriers to restrict access can further protect your property.
Staging equipment on-site for the winter is common but also leaves it at a greater risk for theft:
Work with property managers to determine an area where machines can be secured or parked where video surveillance can monitor them.
Disable machines that must be left in the open. Remove relays, battery cables, etc. to make operating a machine more difficult for a thief. Some plow manufacturers also make antitheft products that will disable equipment.
Park machines with plows and snowblowers against a curb, wall or bollard to make removal more difficult.
This technology requires two keys to start the equipment, making it more challenging for thieves to steal your assets. Dual-key systems are particularly valuable for high-value equipment and vehicles.