Clare gardaí warn of increased risk of caravan thefts

RISING demand for staycations could lead to an increased risk of the theft of caravans, with those planning on buying a caravan also being warned to be on alert.
“Going on holiday at home and the use of caravans has become very popular and with the demand for caravans increasing so will the possibility in an increase in thefts caravans,” says Clare Crime Prevention Officer Sergeant Triona Brooks.
She urges those with a caravan to get an alarm fitted and to keep doors and windows locked at all times, even if out for a short period of time.
“GPS tracking devices can be relatively inexpensive. Consider uniquely marking your caravan on various parts of it and take a photograph showing any marks, scratches or dents,” she adds.
Wheels clamps are a visual deterrent, she advises saying, “ use a good standard clamp which will take time, effort and noise to remove. Ensure that you have a hitch lock in place.”
If parked beside your home for a significant period of time remove all valuables and park in a well-lit area.
“Be very careful when purchasing a caravan – if it sounds too good to be true it usually is and always use secure online payments like PayPal for safety.
Register your caravan with Central Registration and Identification Scheme – CRiS. A CRiS check will provide you with a comprehensive history check on any pre-owned touring caravan, by checking if a caravan has been reported as stolen or if it has been written off by an insurance company. All caravans manufactured since 1992 are recorded on the CRiS database by their unique 17 digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN),” she concludes.