Multiple recent break-ins and attempted break-ins
Recent police reports reveal that even parked campervans and caravans are becoming targets for thieves. In Schmallenberg, unknown perpetrators attempted to break into four campervans parked on an airfield between September 30 and October 1. In two cases, the attempts failed.
Additionally, the police in Braunschweig report ongoing break-ins and thefts of campervans. So far this year, they have recorded eleven cases: five break-ins and six thefts, two of which were thwarted at the attempt stage. In a recent case, police suspect that a steering wheel lock may have prevented the complete theft of the campervan.
Caravans are also affected. In Cornberg, unknown individuals forcibly entered a parked caravan at the end of September and searched it. The police estimated the material damage alone at around €700.
In Werlte, a few days earlier, thieves gained access to a caravan and stole, among other things, a gas cylinder and a reel of cable. According to the police, the total damage was in the low three-digit euro range.
Prevention starts before the actual break-in
Mechanical security measures, such as steering wheel locks or wheel clamps, can make vehicle theft more difficult. When it comes to breaking into the interior, the goal is to deter perpetrators as early as possible.
Active monitoring solutions can complement these measures. For example, CampSecure™ uses an Android smartphone in the vehicle to detect movement and sounds. In case of suspicious activity, lights or the display can be activated, and a voice can be played. Simultaneously, the owner is notified.
The idea is straightforward: The thief should notice as early as possible that the caravan or campervan is not unobserved. While no guarantee against a break-in exists, prevention can begin before doors or windows are forcibly opened.