There are ways that you can prevent theft of your gear, and some that are just common sense. Some may also reduce your premium.

First and foremost, the important thing is to get your equipment insured against theft and accidental or malicious damage. For around £100 a year you can insure £1000's of sound & lighting equipment and protect your tools of the trade. For Equipment Insurance, I recommend Musicguard Insurance

(1) Buy a vehicle with good locks and make sure that it is left locked - even when paying for fuel

(2) Have a good alarm system / immobiliser fitted. Thatcham cat 1 systems may also get you a discount from your insurer. If you have a newish van consider a tracking system

(3) Don't have the van signwritten - it tells thieves exactly what is in the van, and may lead to a break in even when the van is unloaded.

(4) Only keep the vehicle loaded when you are going to / coming from a gig, don't use your van as a place to store your gear.

(5) Use mirror or tinted Window film on any windows which allow passers by to see into your van. Add a small "No tools or equipment are left in this vehicle" message on one of the rear doors. Using cheap peel off vinyl lettering will not damage your paintwork or the re-sale value!. Most signwriters will do this for you.

(6) If you vehicle is left on your driveway - consider a cheap external CCTV camera (£24 B&Q - £16 Makro) this will deter theft and may also reduce your house premium. A Floodlight with P.I.R is also a good idea on your driveway or Garage.

(7) Inform your house insurer that you are keeping Additional Audio / Lighting equipment in your house / garage, you may find that cover will be added for very little cost against theft whilst the gear is in storage!.

(8) If you have an house alarm, add an RF sensor to it. This consists of a battery powered P.I.R type sensor (Which you can just place in the vehicle when parked at home) and a receiver which fits into an empty zone on your alarm panel. If the vehicle is broken into the house alarm sounds! - simple!. These have a range of around 100 Feet, are legal and very effective!. Cost - £50

(9) Write your house number and postcode on each piece of equipment in invisible U.V pen. (If you use UV Lighting - mark the underside of the gear!)

Most of these tips will not reduce your premium, but they will reduce your need to make a claim and add to peace of mind!.