Gardaí are appealing to caravan and campervan owners to take extra security measures following a cluster of recent thefts.

A total of 13 caravans have been stolen since March, 2020.

Sergeant Ber Leetch said the public should be extra vigilant with caravan security and recommended use of a ‘hitch lock’ when parked up, as well as a tracking device, which cost €150.

"A caravan or campervan can be a very expensive, and the items you have inside them could be irreplaceable if they hold a sentimental value. I would recommend that you keep valuables out of sight and make sure everything is locked when you go out.  

“Criminals are opportunistic so whilst you may think that its fine whilst you pop out for half an hour, you never know. Don’t give them the opportunity by not securing it. Please make sure you park smart and lock up your caravan or campervan no matter where you are. If something is stolen from you, not matter what it is, call the Gardaí immediately.”

As part of its Park Smart campaign, Gardaí have highlighted that over €30 million worth of items has been stolen from vehicles in the last four years.

43 thefts

Since 2019 there has been 43 theft of caravans and campervans.

Most recently this month a caravan worth around €4,000 was stolen from a yard.

The owner had no record of any serial number or chassis number or image of the caravan.

The value of some of the caravans and campervans that have been stolen ranges from €1,000 to €30,000. 

Crime prevention advice 

• ensure a good quality hitch lock and wheel clamps are in place and that the caravan is locked to a secure point,
• get an alarm fitted if one is not already in place,
• keep valuables out of sight and remove when not in use,
• ensure windows and doors are locked,
• park in a well-lit area. Keep a light on if leaving unattended overnight,
• use a cover when not in use. This may deter thieves as pulling off a cover can be noisy and add to the time taken to steal the caravan,
• keep good records of all serial numbers, unique markings, image of the caravan/campervan etc. Keep documents secure,
• consider voluntarily registering your caravan with the Central Registration and Identification Scheme