Door Security

We have the dog with us 90% of the time so that works as deterrent and if I feel vulnerable then I would lock the disabled type handle across, but only ever done that when heading into the shops in dodgy areas and no one else in the van

nipper pm for you

That sounds like a very secure set up. Do you have any pics of it installed in your camper? How do the straps work?

I cant see you getting out the windows too quick too many catches to open

LOL.

That's what you have to like about Motorhomers, in spite of danger they will go out of their way to teach you a new skill


I fancy one of those Fiamma door locks but only for when I am leaving the van on it's own.

the most unsecure part of a motorhome are the windows.
also most vans with outside access to under seat lockers are very easily opened with a flat blade, once locker door opened it is a simple case of climbing into van.

Well said NTG I am off the same opinion. no questions asked, hit first and hit hard and there is all night after that to ask and answer any questions that are required. People that do these things needs to be shown the proper way to behave and the need to leave other peoples property alone.

Would an Ak47 be legal for a spot of duck hunting

Getting back to door security. I bought a set of heosafe door locks. They are considerably more expensive than the bar across the cab but I think they were worth it. My reasoning:

First off, if a thief really wants to get into your camper they will. Anything we do is merely deterrent.

When I first researched this I was told by one more experienced than me, 'that anyone who know anything about the ducato knows that the standard door lock are absolutely pathetic'. I've certainly heard reports of them being jimmied open in about 10 seconds. (I've not empirically tested this as a I don't wish to destroy my door locks ) But a visual inspection does not exactly inspire confidence.

Apparently after forcing the lock, one of the next most preferred method of entry is to cut the rubber around the quarter light window. They then quietly pop out the glass reach inside, pop the lock and in they go. Straps or bars across the cab provide little to no delay. I have read stories on other forums of people having this happen to them while asleep in the van. But then again they chould be the owners of a security accessories company

The HeoSafe is essentially a sturdy lockable deadbolt on each door. If its locked it aint for opening without the benefit of a hammer or crowbar but to get a good aim you would need to be inside already or have smashed the door glass.

Other things I like about the HeoSafe are:

• it is fitted to the door so deployment is simply a matter of turn and lock

• no need to find a place to store it when not in use
  

• if all comes to all and you need to drive off in a hurry nothing is impeding your access to the drivers seat
  

Finally, I have a the exterior habitation door lock on my van but I would never ever consider using it when we are in the van. I saw a picture recently of a burnt out RV in which a couple died. I dont know the full particulars (could not find link to where I saw it) but even though this happened during the day they did not make it out of the RV in time. Very Sad. Why add to the risk of not making it out by locking your hab door on the outside?

Looking forward to it. Thanks John.