battery drain? security device is activates on its own....

[edsel]

my 97 astro van has an apparent short. i have to charge the battery to get her started and then the charge lasts maybe an hour and then i have to jump or charge her back up to get started again. ok, i notice that there is a security feature that now flashes intemittently, it is located beneath the dash between the steering wheel and the radio. i never had it activated but it now flashes and when it does the car wont start. i have to tap it a few times and then the light goes out and i can start the car. anyway is suspect this is also causing the battery drain. how do i remove the device? thanks edsel......