Ram raid
[edit] Introduction
Also referred to as a ram attack, ram raiding is a fast and destructive form of burglary that is planned in advance. This type of security breach uses a motor vehicle (such as a motorcycle, car, van or truck) to break through the locked gates, doors or windows of a retail establishment, warehouse or some other building containing expensive goods and equipment for the purpose of committing a burglary. Ram raids may also be directed at cash points.
These events may take place in areas where vehicle thefts are frequent, since stolen vehicles are sometimes used in the attacks.
The term ram raid was introduced in the 1970s and became commonly used after several attacks were featured in the news. The occurrence of ram raids increased in the 1990s.
[edit] Ram raid deterrents
There are several tactics that can be used to protect against ram raids.
- Bollards. Bollards can be used to prevent ram raiding and other forms of vehicle ramming attacks (such as those associated with acts of terrorism).
- Electronic barriers. These devices can also be activated in order to deter ram raid activities.
- Security guards. Physical security guards may serve as enough of a deterrent to keep burglars from planning an intrusion.
- CCTV. CCTV won’t stop a ram raid, but it may discourage burglars from organising such an attack, since they could provide evidence that might help police identify the perpetrators.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Government outcome to the late payment consultation, ECA reacts.
IHBC 2025 Gus Astley Student Award winners
Work on the role of hewing in UK historic conservation a win for Jack Parker of Oxford Brookes University.
Future Homes Building Standards and plug-in solar
Parts F and L amendments, the availability of solar panels and industry responses.
How later living housing can help solve the housing crisis
Unlocking homes, unlocking lives.
Preparing safety case reports for HRBs under the BSA
A new practical guide to preparing structural inputs for safety cases and safety case reports published by IStructE.
Male construction workers and prostate cancer
CIOB and Prostate Cancer UK encourage awareness of prostate cancer risks, and what to do about it.
The changed R&D tax landscape for Architects
Specialist gives a recap on tax changes for Research and Development, via the ACA newsletter.
Structured product data as a competitive advantage
NBS explain why accessible product data that works across digital systems is key.
Welsh retrofit workforce assessment
Welsh Government report confirms Wales faces major electrical skills shortage, warns ECA.
A now architectural practice looks back at its concept project for a sustainable oceanic settlement 25 years on.
Copyright and Artificial Intelligence
Government report and back track on copyright opt out for AI training but no clear preferred alternative as yet.
Embedding AI tools into architectural education
Beyond the render: LMU share how student led research is shaping the future of visualisation workflows.
Why document control still fails UK construction projects
A Chartered Quantity Surveyor explains what needs to change and how.
Inspiration for a new 2026 wave of Irish construction professionals.
New planning reforms and Warm Homes Bill
Take centre stage at UK Construction Week London.
A brief run down of changes intentions from April in an onwards.