Everything You Need to Know About Motorhome Security
If you’ve just had motorhome upholstery work completed on your caravan, you may understandably be excited to get out on the road and test it out. In all likelihood, this process has set you back a decent bit of money and time, but in a lot of cases, security is not given too much thought.
Whilst campervan break-ins aren’t considered too common, they do, of course, happen from time to time, and you’ll want to be sure that you don’t fall victim to theft, loss or damage, especially given the cost of the vehicle itself and the contents inside. But Britain has been enjoying such holidays for the last 70 years.
Lock It Up
Many cases of theft and damage happen when campervans and caravans are left unattended, such as when owners are away and the vehicle is left parked outside.
Of course, the simplest method of securing your leisure vehicle is the good, old-fashioned lock and key. That starts with ensuring that your caravan’s keys are protected, just like you would with your house keys, so make sure that they are not left in plain sight for potential intruders to simply help themselves.
If you have recently had your motorhome upholstery redesigned or refilled, chances are you may actually be holidaying in your vehicle. That doesn’t necessarily mean that you are safe from danger, though, as you probably won’t be keeping a round-the-clock eye on your valuable possessions inside, and it’s unlikely you’ll be able to carry everything on you.
As simple as it may sound, don’t keep anything of value on view. This is the case through windows or otherwise, when leaving the caravan. You don’t want to make yourself an easy target. You may feel safer investing in a secure safe, though, preferably one that is attached to your leisure vehicle so it can’t be picked up and carried out.
Keep Potential Entrances Secure
Burglars don’t always need keys to gain access to your property. It’s not uncommon to walk through a camper site in the summer and see doors, windows and skylights wide open. This is the case whether the owners are in or not.
This can present the easiest of opportunities for intruders. It requires very little effort to nip in and steal whatever they fancy. If you have locks or restrictors on your windows, make sure they’re in use when you’re away from your vehicle. If not, it’s a good idea to keep all potential entrances securely shut and locked, regardless of the temperature.
Update and Boost Your Security
For added peace of mind, you can always improve on the security features that your vehicle currently has. Even the most modern of campervans has room for protection updates.
- Some of these can be highly visible too, informing thieves that they have no chance of hijacking your van. Wheel, steering and gear clamps are highly distinguishable deterrents that allow for almost zero movement without being unlocked
- Your door locks, as strong and sturdy as they may be, can be replaced with deadlocks. They offer tighter security and safety. You can also add extra locks and mechanisms to all doors of your leisure vehicle
- Older caravans may not be equipped with the now almost standard Thatcham alarms and immobilisers. You can get these fitted, although they may be a little pricey. It could perhaps be worth it in the long run, though
- Tracking devices are also useful. This allows you and any relevant authorities to locate your vehicle in the event it is stolen
Updating these features can undoubtedly reduce the chances of break-ins and theft. Don’t be afraid to showcase them either. Many security features come with window stickers that you can put up and show people that your van is secured by strong deterrent devices.
Do Your Homework
A little bit of research can go a long way, especially in terms of insurance. Ensure you have the right level of cover for what you have. This can avoid mishaps if the worst comes to the worst.
With all of this being said, security needn’t have to leave you worrying during your holiday. It is a time to relax, safe in the knowledge that you’re away from the troubles of life. As long as everything is in place, you should be free to enjoy your motorhome upholstery, the surrounding area and hopefully the weather.
