Gardai are appealing to campervan owners on staycations to be vigilant after a spate of thefts.
Since March of this year 13 campervans have been stolen across the country.
Crime Prevention Officer Sergeant Ber Leetch, a campervan owner himself, asked people to make sure they take all necessary security measures.
Sergeant Leetch said: "With ‘staycations’ expected to rise this year, and more people using caravans and campervans, there is a need to be extra vigilant with their security.
"As a campervan owner myself, I always make sure we have the hitch lock on when we are parked up for the evening or when it’s not in use. We have also invested in a tracking device, they can be purchased for around €150, so if our campervan was ever stolen there is a better chance of getting it back.
"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."
Since 2019 there has been 43 thefts of caravans and campervans.
The value of some of the caravans and campervans that have been stolen ranges in value from €1,000 to €30,000.
Counties where thefts have happened
Meath - 5
Tipperary - 5
Laois Offaly - 4
Clare - 4
Limerick - 4
DMR North - 3
Wexford -3
Donegal - 2
Kildare -2
Cavan/Monaghan - 2
Cork City - 2
Galway - 2
Louth - 1
Wicklow - 1
Roscommon/Longford - 1
Mayo 1
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
