By Chris Littley
Experts in the caravan industry are warning owners that their vehicles could be targeted during the coronavirus lockdown.
Insurer Caravan Guard has teamed up with vehicle recovery service Tracker to offer a number of tips on securing caravans and motorhomes while restrictions remain in place.
They highlighted the fact that the majority of thefts of leisure vehicles happen when they aren’t being used for a long time or are in storage. And that basically sums up the situation for all caravans and motorhomes at present, as it’s against government rules to take them away for an overnight trip.
Liz Harrison at Caravan Guard told the Daily Record: “We know how disappointing it is to be unable to hit the open road. But owners must remember that their pride and joy is still vulnerable and must be protected.”
Among the tips suggested is fitting security posts or a lockable gate at the end of your drive to prevent thieves from driving your caravan off your property. Alternative methods of securing a motorhome include marking it or fitting a tracking device for easier recovery if it is stolen.
If you’re looking for equipment that will stop thieves in their tracks, then there’s plenty to choose from. These include hitch locks, wheel clamps, steering wheel locks and door deadlocks. They each target a different part of the caravan and can be purchased relatively cheaply to offer greater peace of mind that your beloved motorhome will be safe until you can next use it.
Some of the common mistakes made by caravan owners when their vehicle is not being used include leaving valuables inside and not marking items with their postcode. Registration documents should also be taken out of your motorhome and put in a safe place, as these would help a potential thief to sell on your treasured vehicle once they’ve taken it.
Clive Wain from Tracker added: “While the extended lockdown increases the risk of caravan theft, there are plenty of ways in which owners can protect themselves and their vehicle. Security and insurance are both vital, and neither should fall down the list of priorities this summer.”
