Security Measures to Help Prevent Caravan Theft
The past decade has seen a great deal of fluctuation in caravan thefts. In 2003 theft increased by a whopping 96.52%, but in 2008 it fell 70% from the previous year. The majority of touring caravans are stolen from storage compounds, although thefts from a home address follow closely. There doesn’t seem to be any seasonality to the thefts, but, predictably, newer models are more frequently targeted.
What these numbers tell us is that the threat of caravan theft is unpredictable and very real, and as a result we strongly recommend that owners take preventative steps to protect their caravans from thieves.
Security measures should both bring you peace of mind and in many cases lower your insurance premium. There are numerous options to consider.
Hitchlocks
The highest standard ones should completely cover the securing bolts and envelop the hitch head.
Wheelclamps
Choose a product that cannot be disabled by letting down the caravan tyre, and try and avoid clamps with exposed locks or radiating arms.
Caravan Wheel Locks
These are similar to wheelclamps but fit through the wheel and attach to the brake assembly. They were launched in 2005 so they may not be compatible with models manufactured before 2001.
Alarms
Alarms can be fitted by the manufacturer or retrofitted. Key issues to look out for are power consumption during storage and ease of disablement.
Tracking Systems
These generally use satellite technology to track your touring caravan if it has been stolen.
CRIS (Caravan Registration and Identification Scheme)
Since 1992 all touring caravans manufactured by National Caravan Council members are marked with 17 digit VIN numbers and recorded on the CRIS Register.
