One of the main reasons why people choose to stay in caravan parks over free camps is safety. You’re in town, you’re behind a boom gate, and now there’s even plenty of parks with security cameras around the place. Caravan Parks are all about community – a fun, safe, relaxing environment where you don’t need to worry. Correct?
Well – it seems as though in some parts of Australia, this little community is the one being targeted by the biggest low lives of all – thieves.
The headline reads ‘Five Caravan Park Thefts in just one week’. This is the story coming out of Hervey Bay right now, where thieves are sneaking into caravan parks, and going on a looting spree. They’re stealing food, wallets and phones, and anything else sitting out in view.
Now I’m fuming about this. These bottom feeders are coming into our safe havens and nicking our stuff while we’re out exploring, or sleeping at night. Absolute cowards.
Unfortunately, the only way to ensure this doesn’t happen to you is to keep your possessions out of sight, keep your doors locked when you’re away, and hope that you’re not the unlucky ones
However, in the spirit of keeping yourself and your partner (and your biggest investment) safe – I hope you can take something away from these safety and security tips!
Take sensible precautions – don’t flaunt possessions like jewellery or tell people what you are carrying with you.
Don’t be too overt with physical protection devices like chains and padlocks because these may advertise that you have something inside worth stealing.
Do not carry large amounts of cash – use debit or credit cards whenever possible.
Take valuables like cameras and wallets when leaving the RV for extended periods.
Always lock the RV at night and when the RV is unattended.
Carry a RV door key on a lanyard around your neck so locking up quickly becomes automatic and no-one gets locked out!
Install a security door – these offer superior resistance to break-in and are great for extra ventilation during balmy Aussie nights.
Always keep you purse or wallet out of sight in a van cupboard, preferably not in a bedside drawer.
Keep any valuables like jewellery, large amounts of cash, identity papers and the like in a caravan safe hidden inside a cupboard.
If you feel uncomfortable or uneasy at any place you’re camped, pack up and move on.
Install locking wheel nuts on your wheels to prevent theft of your wheels.
EXCELLENT SECURITY DEVICES:
Wheel clamp
Hitch lock
Motion sensing lights
GPS tracking
Where else is this happening around Australia? Here are the places that have had a number of thefts reported in the last 12 months:
– Port Augusta, SA
– Berowra, NSW
– Redland Bay & Pine Rivers, QLD
– Pakenham, VIC
Are you worried about these thieves? Will you be steering clear of these crime hotspots? Let me know what you think – fred@candm.com.au