As far as adventurous hobbies and lifestyles go, RVing is a relatively safe one. Aside from the occasional incident, most campers can feel carefree on their journey and while kicking back at the campsite.
But even so, RVers should be well apprised of any potential safety and security hazards and the preventive measures to avoid them. Some things we’ve covered in previous articles: driving in windy weather, fire safety, unexpected Michigan weather, and maintaining your tires; this time, we’ll focus on ensuring your rig is safely secured while parked –for a night, for a quick stop-off, for a lengthy vacation at a campground.
Follow these five steps to safeguard your rig and your valuables:
1. Get to know your neighbors: We’re all aware that the RVing community is tight-knit, so don’t be shy and get to know your neighbors. Chances are they’ll be more likely to keep an eye on your rig after having met you rather than if you remained a stranger. Feel free to swap phone numbers in case anything happens while you’re away and vice versa. Even if it’s something simple to fix, such as a leaking water line, you’ll appreciate the neighborly phone call.
2. Research your destination: Much like you researched your rig before committing to purchasing it, research your destination and the route to it. Online reviews are a great way to get honest, candid opinions of campgrounds and resorts. If there are numerous reviews reporting theft, vandalism, or any other suspicious behavior, assume that’s probably not the best place to stay; the same goes for the surrounding community. If the town in which the campground resides, or the towns you have to drive through to get to the campground, have a colored past, consider an alternative route or campground entirely.
3. Always lock up: It’s a simple thing, but probably one of the best deterrents. Don’t make it easy for theft to occur and lock your doors, windows, and possessions. Thieves are much more likely to move on if they don’t have immediate access to your belongings. Secure any outdoor furniture, batteries, toys, or other belongings that could be potential targets; lock them in or to your rig while you’re away or in for the night.
For additional peace of mind, consider investing in a boot to cover your tires – one that also covers the lugs so that the tire cannot simply be changed. If you’re leaving your rig in a new place or at the same spot for an extended period of time, boots offer great reassurance that you’re rig will be exactly where you left it.
Another safeguard is to attach a lock around your kingpin. A properly secured lock will prevent any unwanted trailer hookups.
4. Invest in a safe: If your rig is not already equipped with a safe, you would be wise to invest in one. A safe place to stow your jewelry, money, tablets, and any other valuables you may have on board adds one more level of security to your stay. Don’t tempt potential thieves by leaving your belongings in clear view – close your shades when you are away, even if it’s just for a short trip up to the local shops or a brief excursion to the beach.
5. Park in well-light, busy parking lots: When parking your rig in a foreign lot, whether it’s for the night or for a quick bite to eat, always find a busy, well-light place. Make it as hard as possible for any unwanted visitors to get into your rig unseen.
RVing is your time to relax, so save your family’s peace of mind and ensure you have the best time, every time, but following these simple steps! Any helpful tips and preventative measures we missed? Comment and share your insights on our Facebook page!