The RVing lifestyle is one enjoyed by a lot of us. After all, it gives you all the freedom of hitting the open road and staying at your favorite campgrounds, combined with all the great conveniences of home. It’s important to remember, however, that just as most of us take precautions while we’re at home as far as safety and security are concerned, it’s equally important to do so on the road.
The unfortunate fact is that the haul-it-all comfort of motor homes and trailers are of interest to some criminals—most often when they’re in storage, at a parking lot or otherwise away from the bustling friendliness of a campground. So how can you keep your RV—and the belongings inside—safe? Here are a few ideas:
1. Always lock your RV. It may seem like a no-brainer, but who hasn’t left their rig unlocked for a couple of minutes while getting a soda at a convenience store? Remember, a lot can happen in those minutes away.
2. Don’t leave expensive equipment inside your RV—especially in plain view of passersby. There’s no need to tempt those who need little provocation; carefully secure your possessions (laptops, televisions, DVD systems, GPS navigation, etc.) and try to keep them out of sight.
3. Storage compartments are easy targets, so don’t store anything valuable inside. Not only can many of these compartments can be opened with a single common key (often marked CH751) but they are also relatively easy to break into with a screwdriver or other tools. A favorite target are auxiliary generators; you may want to take extra steps to secure yours.
4. When parking your rig at the mall, amusement park or other large venue, look for a well-lit spot with the RV door facing the store. Thieves don’t like high-traffic areas, so don’t make the mistake of secluding yourself and your RV.
5. Don’t travel with cash. Use credit or debit cards, which can be easily replaced. Thieves are knowledgeable about where RVers tend to store money, including in clothing stored in the closet, in the refrigerator/ freezer, under sinks and drawers, etc.
6. Use caution with signage. Although it might be tempting to display your name on or around your rig, it’s information you probably don’t want thieves to have.
7. The installation of motion-sensitive lights may also be helpful if you store your RV around your home or in a storage facility with staff on premises. It’s an easy way to see when someone is around your rig.
8. Finally, if you’re willing to spend a little bit more, there are very good wireless security and vehicle recovery systems on the market that can be installed if your RV didn’t come with them.
Taking these easy steps can help keep your home away from home safe and secure, and your next RV adventure even more enjoyable.
