By William Coleman
Recently there have been a spate of thefts of across Telford of caravan batteries. Owners have been warned to take extra precautions to ensure they do not fall victim to these targeted crimes. What else can be done to keep your caravan, and it’s parts safe?
Like I have said many times before, the caravan will always be a target for vandals and thieves. I cannot give you an exact reason as to why this is but in my opinion I think it’s because they are seen as easy pickings. And maybe there are certain communities that are transient and dont mind rolling through a town and taking the opportunity to “relieve you” of some spare parts.
Whatever the reason we need to make sure we do all we can to prevent things like being pinched from our vans, something that seems to be happening far too often in Telford over the past few weeks.
Police in West Mercia have issued a warning to caravan owners regarding a spree of leisure vehicle battery thefts in Donnington. Something I am sure is happening all over the UK.
Officers said: “PCSOs have received reports of leisure batteries stolen from caravans on residential properties in Donnington”.
Police have warned owners to “Check your caravan is safe and secure,” following such a high number of break ins.
The leisure batteries are able to power 12V equipment in caravans and motorhomes so they are something that someone who doesn’t want to pay will target for theft.
Authorities have advised those with caravans, motorhomes or campers to ensure that they are kept secure and locked with the keys kept somewhere safe and secure.
I do not know too many people who keep their leisure vehicles unlocked, or keys anywhere other than inside their home, but it is always worth popping out and double checking. It could be the difference between having and not having a leisure battery.
Anybody with information about the thefts can call police on 101. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or at crimestoppers-uk.org.
Keeping That Van Safe
When it comes to keeping your caravan safe there are a quite a few measures that can be taken to ensure no third party harm comes your way.
With that being said, if someone wants in, they will go to a lot of lengths to get what they want. There is only so much you can do, but the more you do the safer you are. I would always advise you to get some kind of insurance cover just to be on the safe side.
Here are a few reminders of what can be done to keep your leisure vehicle safe, especially during the winter when it is being kept in one place until it warms up again.
The Regular Check
I am a self confessed creature of habit who, for some weird reason, loves checking and rearranging things. So when it comes to the caravan I habitually go out and check it and move things around.
This is a good habit to get into when the van is not in use. A once round every week will take no time at all. It will be the one time you do not check where you’ll end up not releasing the door was left unlocked or a window wasn’t closed.
Alarms and Cameras
Exterior cameras watching the drive where the caravan was kept, interior alarm system with supporting cameras, GPS trackers and then the good old fashioned wheel locks. These are all great tools to deter or even stop a would be thief from gaining access to your van and pinching whatever he likes.
Never shy away from an alarm due to its price. With alarms you get what you pay for. If you have budgeted for a motorhome or caravan you should always add a little bit more for the after purchase essentials like alarm systems.
A motorhome, being part car/van, usually has an alarm in the cab. This does not always extend to the rear doors. So always check when purchasing what factory standard security the home as. When you go to store the home you can’t put a price on peace of mind.
You Just Can’t Beat A Cover
A caravan cover is such a simple idea but one of the most effective when it comes to protecting your van from the weather and vandals.
If the van is out of sight it is also out of mind. I urge anyone who does not have a cover to go out immediately and get one.
The other great thing about how the cover can be an extremely effective deterrent is the fact it takes a while to remove it.
The would be thief is probably want it to be a bit of an in and out job and wont like the idea of standing out in the open, removing an entire caravan cover.
