Motorhome security

Anyone who has bought a motorhome – or is looking to buy one – knows it is a significant investment.

It is not surprising to learn, therefore, that motorhomes are a target for thieves. What is surprising to learn that many motorhome owners do not install additional security measures that could deter opportunistic thieves.

According to a report in This is Money, 54% of motorhome owners do not have any security installed and only 6% have trackers fitted.

With thefts on the rise over the past couple of years, it is so important to make sure your motorhome is not only adequately insured but is also fitted with appropriate levels of security.

So, what is available on the market? There are a myriad options that cost from just a few hundred pounds right up to thousands, there is no one-size-fits-all measure. Make sure you do your research to see what will work best for your vehicle and what your insurer requires.

The first thing to look out for is Thatcham certification. Thatcham is an insurance industry-funded body that tests security products.

Its approved devices are classified into groups:

• Category 1: Combined alarm and immobiliser
• Category 2: Electronic immobiliser
• Category 2/1: Alarm upgrade (ie, adding an alarm to a Category 2 system)
• Category 3: Mechanical immobilisation (such as a steering wheel, pedal and gear lever device)
• Category 4: Wheel-locking devices
• Category S5: Trackers and recovery systems
• Category S7: Stolen vehicle location.

There are also Q Class systems that include non-categorised systems, such as aftermarket alarms and immobilisers that do not have the Thatcham seal of approval.

It’s worth bearing in mind that many modern motorhomes come with only a category 2 system, so it’s worth considering upgrading.

Here are a few things to bear in mind when looking for a security system:

Useability

Is it easy to use and can you understand the instructions? It would be a waste of money to invest hundreds of pounds on a device that you cannot programme properly or simply give up on. Ask for a demonstration and ensure you can easily set it all up.

Alarm

An alarm is a good idea, but don’t expect it to automatically reduce your insurance premium. Before investing, check with your insurance provider to see if it requires a specific type or model, or even Thatcham level, to save you money.

Consider an alarm with a two-way pager because this sends an alert to you if your motorhome is accessed without your knowledge giving you vital seconds to get outside and prevent a theft.

You can also install an alarm system that flashes to show it is working. This might be a better alternative to one that makes a noise, which can get on your nerves!

It is recommended that alarms with two internal sirens are used – and make sure they are hidden so that potential thieves cannot see them. Use fitters that are motorhome specialists as they know exactly where to place them.

Enquire about an Alarm here.

Trackers

Not all trackers are made equal. Some of the cheaper ones work only on 2G networks, which are to be phased out over the next few years, while others use GPS and the mobile phone network.

There are packages that provide different levels of service, from passive tracking that sends an alert, to active monitoring that will help to track down the stolen vehicle.

Enquire about a Tracker here.

Locks

A less technology-based system, but stopping a thief getting into the vehicle in the first place is a good place to start. Think about devices to secure the cab doors, habitation doors and windows, and garage. There are different size locks, so make sure you get one that will fit your vehicle. Wheel locks, steering wheel locks and clutch claws are other good visible deterrents and also help to boost security.

If you are unsure which system would work best for you and your vehicle, the friendly Travelworld team can provide valuable advice and can guide you through the options. Contact the team today on: 01785 878787.