This week we had an RV come in that had been broken into. Luckily this is not a common occurrence but it can and does happen. In the case of this customer, the burglars actually pried open the door with a pry bar and did a real number on the RV. I’m sure that if you were to ask this customer, they would rather the burglar had just taken what they took and not done so much damage to the RV, as the repair can be more of a hassle than simply replacing some stolen items.
So this week we are discussing RV thefts, burglaries and what you can or should do to help lower your risks of being victimized.
Notice that I said minimize, not eliminate. The reality is that if someone wants your stuff bad enough, they are going to get it. Ask any Police officer, nothing is every truly theft proof. And if the whole RV gets stolen (A problem that is reportedly on the rise), RV’s all look alike to the untrained.
So tip number one is to find a way to make your RV look distinctive. RV’s are easier to locate and less likely to get stolen if they are distinctive, whether it is with a custom paint scheme, decals or some other custom flourish.
Camping trailers and RVs can be easy targets for thieves, as they can just drive away with not only with the valuables inside, but your trailer as well. RV crime is increasing and it’s becoming a serious concern for those who travel with their campers and trailers every year.
If you are a seasoned RV traveler or are new to the camping lifestyle, keep these tips in mind to keep your camper safe from would-be burglars.
Tip number two: Consider how you park your trailer.
When you arrive to the RV lot or campsite, or even if the camper is in your driveway, it’s important to consider how you will park your trailer. Most people will reverse their camper into a parking spot. Positioning the camper this way makes it easier to drive off when you’re ready to go home, but it also makes it easier for someone to hitch up your trailer and be gone while you’re away hiking or enjoying the area.
When you park at a campsite, simply turning your camper around , pointing the hitch away from the standard access will deter a potential thief because they would have to physically turn the camper in order to steal it, which takes more time. You’ll need a jockey wheel or tongue wheel to park this way, which you can get at your local travel/outdoor store.
Tip number three: Lock everything on your RV
We all know to lock the front door on our RV, but do you always remember to lock the windows? What about the hatches? Its easy to forget to lock these areas when you are in “camping mode”.
Tip number 4: Eliminate all temptations for RV thieves
Eliminate any temptations around your camping spot by keeping valuables out of sight. When we are camping we bring lots of gear, and despite being away from it all, we still are addicted to our devices, especially if you have kids.
Tip number 5: Consider keeping the shades closed. You don’t want your hiking gear or your cooking equipment to be taken simply because someone can see the items through the window.
Tip number 6: Camp with others. There’s safety in numbers. Camping around other people means there’s someone to look out for your space. Plus, thieves usually avoid populated areas.
Tip number 7: Get a safe. If you are traveling with any valuables, consider bringing along a small safe to keep your cash, credit cards, or jewelry safe.
Tip number 8: Find the right RV security system.
The right security system for your camper is a matter of personal preference. You can choose from many options, such as alarms, a deadbolt, or motion detecting lights.
Many RV owners enjoy the security that comes with motion detector lights. If you are camping in the middle of nowhere, or even when your RV is parked in your own driveway, it can get pretty dark at night. A motion detector light can help you feel safer as you enjoy your surroundings. A motion detector light will detect objects like cars, people, or animals. When motion is detected, the light turns on and stays on for a preset time, usually about 20 seconds. The light shuts off when the motion is no longer detected.
RV Burglaries typically happen in one of these three places:
1. Burglaries that occur in an RV or Motorhome Storage Facility.
2. Burglaries that occur in an RV stored outside a storage facility (at a home, in a barn, etc)
3. Burglaries that occur in an RV parked while it is on the road.
Tip Number 9: Change the factory locks. Your cargo hatch key fits every other RV regardless of brand. Consider changing the locks but remember that the door can still be pried open easily.
Tip number 10: Hide your plates. If parked at an RV storage facility, put your license plate inside the Rv or take it with you. Storage facility owner will tell you that us that this is not unusual because people who want to avoid paying taxes and fees often steal plates with long expiration dates which could It costs over $300 to replace it depending on what state you live in.
If you have ever been the victim of a crime, you understand the feelings of violation, anger, and every other emotion that that goes with it. So enjoy your RV, go have fun and find your adventure, but keep these tips in mind to prevent your fun from being spoiled while out on the road.