Vehicle security is a major concern for motorhome owners. Motorhome insurance is vital to protect your vehicle whether you are on the road or at home and in the event of a theft. However, insurance alone is not a preventative measure, meaning other precautions are essential. Some insurance policies stipulate security devices must be used for a policy to remain valid, whilst others offer discounts for additional measures. This makes security devices a worthwhile investment and including them in your budget is strongly recommended.
To make the choices a little easier, we put together a list of options as well as tips on what to look out for when choosing a product and other things to remember to keep your motorhome safe and secure:
A wheel clamp stops a vehicle from moving. Ideally a wheel clamp should cover the wheel nuts to prevent the clamp being removed simply by removing the entire wheel. A wheel lock is also essential on the go so take weight into account and select a model which is secure but can be easily used by you. Choosing a clamp which is too heavy may lead to it going unused.
A steering wheel lock simply prevents a steering wheel from being turned, making any manoeuvres impossible. It is a highly visible deterrent that lets potential thieves know it will slow them down and one that can be used on the go as well as when the vehicle is out of use.
A gear lock works by locking the gear stick to the handbrake, preventing gears from being changed. This is another great visual deterrent.
Having a driveway security post prevents the removal of a vehicle from the premises. A telescopic bollard is ideal and it can be easily retracted for access. The post should be properly installed in concrete and have an integrated anti-drill lock. Ensure that the post is effective by closing off other boundaries of the property.
An immobiliser disables a vehicle’s functions, preventing it from being started unless the correct key is in place. This is likely to be pre-installed in models built in the past fifteen years. However if you own an older model, it is advisable to have one fitted.
Again, most modern motorhomes will have an alarm pre-installed. For older models an alarm can be easily fitted. By giving warning of a break-in or attempted theft it will alert you and deter thieves. There is also the option of having an internal sensor alarm to detect movement within the vehicle when it is out of use.
A tracking device will assist in the recovery of a motorhome should it be stolen by allowing its location to remotely monitored. This increases the chances of perpetrators being caught and the vehicle recovered.
Ensure all devices are properly installed and meet industry standards – look out for the Sold Secure logo or Thatcham approval
Install as many devices as possible – it should look as difficult to steal as possible to deter the casual thief and be secure enough to significantly slow down a more well-equipped one
Never leave your paperwork in the vehicle – otherwise thieves could appear as legitimate owners!
Keep your keys out of sight – it’s not unknown for home break-ins to occur with the intent of vehicle theft
Move valuables out of your motorhome when you’re not on the road – avoid running the risk of damage to your motorhome if thieves targets goods inside
http://www.caravantalk.co.uk/caravan-insurance/security/security-in-your-motorhome
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