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
Do you take the lead in a circular construction economy?
Help us develop and expand this wiki as a resource for academia and industry alike.
Warm Homes Plan Workforce Taskforce
Risks of undermining UK’s energy transition due to lack of electrotechnical industry representation, says ECA.
Cost Optimal Domestic Electrification CODE
Modelling retrofits only on costs that directly impact the consumer: upfront cost of equipment, energy costs and maintenance costs.
The Warm Homes Plan details released
What's new and what is not, with industry reactions.
Could AI and VR cause an increase the value of heritage?
The Orange book: 2026 Amendment 4 to BS 7671:2018
ECA welcomes IET and BSI content sign off.
How neural technologies could transform the design future
Enhancing legacy parametric engines, offering novel ways to explore solutions and generate geometry.
Key AI related terms to be aware of
With explanations from the UK government and other bodies.
From QS to further education teacher
Applying real world skills with the next generation.
A guide on how children can use LEGO to mirror real engineering processes.
Data infrastructure for next-generation materials science
Research Data Express to automate data processing and create AI-ready datasets for materials research.
Wired for the Future with ECA; powering skills and progress
ECA South Wales Business Day 2025, a day to remember.
AI for the conservation professional
A level of sophistication previously reserved for science fiction.
Biomass harvested in cycles of less than ten years.
An interview with the new CIAT President
Usman Yaqub BSc (Hons) PCIAT MFPWS.
Cost benefit model report of building safety regime in Wales
Proposed policy option costs for design and construction stage of the new building safety regime in Wales.
Do you receive our free biweekly newsletter?
If not you can sign up to receive it in your mailbox here.