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
• Look out for each other's caravans on site and report anything suspicious to the site manager or the police. Call Crimestoppers if you wish to remain anonymous, on 0800 555 111
• 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