Caravans

Your caravan is as valuable to you as your home is, especially when you're on holiday or touring.

·                       Immobilise your caravan even when you only stop briefly

·                       You could have a tracking device fitted so that the caravan can be traced if it is stolen. All caravans manufactured since 1997 have been electronically tagged

·                       Have a reliable alarm fitted and switch it on whenever you leave your caravan, even if only for a few minutes

·                       At home, always keep caravan keys in a safe place out of sight from windows and doors

·                       Take valuables with you when you leave the caravan. If you can't, lock them away in a cupboard

·                       All caravans manufactured in the UK since 1992 have a 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) etched onto the vehicle chassis and windows. You could mark your VIN number with a security marker inside cupboards and other places to help you identify your caravan if it's stolen

·                       Most European manufactured caravans do not have a CRiS number on them. There is some evidence that some brands of European manufactured caravans are more at risk from theft

·                       If you are concerned that you are being offered to buy a stolen caravan, steer clear. It's best to go to reputable shops and dealers. Bargains often are too good to be true

·                       Ask about built-in security when buying a new caravan

·                       When your caravan is not in use, leave curtains and cupboard doors open – thieves can be put off by a caravan that is obviously empty

Second-hand caravans

·                       Never buy second-hand caravans from public car parks or motorway service stations. If you are meeting the seller at a house, check that it is their home as thieves have been known to use the driveway of an empty home to sell stolen caravans

·                       Check that the caravan chassis number has not been removed or altered

·                       Check the caravan's history on the Caravan Registration and Identification Scheme (CriS)

·                       Can the seller provide proof of identity and address?

·                       Check that the numberplate is the same on the caravan and on the tow bar. Be wary if temporary or handwritten numberplates are being used

·                       If you sell your caravan, be aware of fraud. Never part with your caravan until the cheque has cleared