Alert for Caravan and Motorhome Owners

Following the recent theft of a caravan from a storage site in Flintshire, be mindful of your own caravan or motorhome's security.

• Security post - these can be useful, especially if you keep your caravan at home. For greatest security the posts need to be set in concrete and have an internal locking mechanism, to avoid the vulnerability of a padlock.
• Hitch lock - a good hitch lock will provide a reasonable degree of protection from the opportunist thief, but it will not provide sufficient security on its own as the determined thief can bypass the device. Buy one that is manufactured from heavy steel and covers the hitch fixing bolts.
• Number etched on windows - If your caravan was manufactured in the UK since 1992 it should have a Central Registration & identification Scheme (CRiS) mark on the windows and chassis - a unique 17-character identification. Ensure you keep the CRiS or DVLA registration document for your caravan or motorhome in a safe place and not in your unit.
• High security caravan door lock - Caravan and motorhome door locks are generally not robust security devices. You can buy kit to improve the security of your existing lock or your dealer can fit a more secure locking mechanism to your existing lock. Alternatively you can put additional locks on the door. If you fit extra locks, make sure you can still easily exit from the unit in an emergency.
• Brightly coloured wheel clamp - Manufacturers will make many claims about how good their products are, but the only sure way of knowing which is best or how good it is will be to purchase one that has been independently tested to a recognised security standard.  I therefore recommend that you visit the Sold Secure website and purchase products that meet their standards where these are available.
• Lock down corner steadies - Manufacturers will make many claims about how good their products are, but the only sure way of knowing which is best or how good it is will be to purchase one that has been independently tested to a recognised security standard.  I therefore recommend that you visit the Sold Secure website and purchase products that meet their standards where these are available.
• Postcode marked on roof - Mark the roof of your van with the last six characters of its CRiS number or your postcode with large stick-on letters that can be read by roadside cameras. Commercial stick-on kits are available or you can make your own.
• Items inside marked with postcode - Inside the caravan or motorhome you can use either an ultra-violet pen or a simple spirit-based felt tipped pen on raw plywood inside a cupboard or under beds with the CRiS ID or vehicle registration for a motorhome. 
• Reliable alarm system - A reliable alarm, used alongside other security devices, can deter thieves. It can provide warning if someone attempts to move your caravan or gain entry. Whatever the type and purpose of the alarm, make sure that it is reliable and properly fitted.
• Record serial numbers and descriptions of interior fittings - Take photographs of the exterior and interior of the caravan and keep them at home, along with any registration documents. Make a note of any identifying scratches etc.