The number of touring caravans stolen in the UK has plummeted to an estimated 1,400 in 2008, from a one-time high of 4,000-5,000 per annum, according to the industry trade body, the National Caravan Council (NCC).
The NCC believes this is partly due to greater use of the Caravan Registration and Identification Scheme (CRiS), which was set up by the NCC in 1992 and is administered by HPI. CRiS is a voluntary national register of every touring caravan manufactured by NCC members, via a unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Through the issue of a Keeper Registration Document, it acts as a security check for dealers and private caravan buyers, helping to prevent and detect caravan crime.
Greater awareness of the need for security among owners and advances in security products (such as immobilisers, hitch locks, wheel clamps, alarms and tracking devices) have also contributed to the fall, the NCC says.
Caravan owners who want their caravan to be CRiS registered and electronically tagged, should email cris.uk@hpi.co.uk. A CRiS Check costs just £14.95 and is available seven days a week by calling 01722 411 430. For tips on buying a second hand caravan, see www.tourerinfo.co.uk.
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