Hi Guys,My wife and I were talking the other day about our motorhome plans and she very much likes the idea of a 45’ diesel pusher. The room and roadability mean a lot to her but her concern is about safety?Is a motorhome safe from the personal safety standpoint? I have read that RV parks are safe and secure and doesn’t seem to have too many crazy people. And I’ve also read that some of yoo have had problems at rest areas and truck stops.What would you tell her about personal security. • Is a motorhome safe and as difficult to break into as a stick home? • Do people mess with you on and off the road because you’re driving a big motorhome? • Do you have to be on your guard any more than if you were in a car?What should I tell my best girl, I have my own thoughts but would sure like to hear yours so I can share them with her?HJ

Your biggest safety issue, by far, is the driving. We get few reports of anybody being messed with when sitting.

She really seems to have some unfounded issues. Personal security? Is she afraid to go to WalMart? Not trying to be a smart alick, just asking because it sounds like there might something else more serious going on here. Personal security is what you make it. In nearly 50 years traveling the world, including a stint in VierNam, I can count on one hand the number of times I felt unsafe. And none of them had anything to do with RVing.

Although have a fiver, the same applies.Know your surroundings.Keep the doors lockedOnly open if you are sure its safe.Have a good time.That has always worked for me.

Hi 2oldman,When you say "Your biggest safety issue, by far, is the driving" Do you mean because you're driving a big motorhome or general driving on the highways and byways are dangerous?

HOM wrote:...because you're driving a big motorhome or general driving on the highways and byways are dangerous?Generally driving anything anywhere. I feel unsafe going through big cities with road construction everywhere and narrow lanes.I have to admit I will not camp in rest areas as I've heard a few stories about them. But they're too noisy anyway.

My wife is concerned about personal security | Good Sam Community

RayChez
Explorer
Nov 16, 2014
I would have to say it depends where you stay. That is why I belong to private RV parks where they have security and gated resorts. I have been camping for many years and I always carry a weapon within the states. Never take my coach to Mexico or Canada and if I did I would not take a weapon because the laws are very strict. So I stay within the states. I have never had any problems with the two coaches I have had.

I would not stay at a Wal-Mart or a truck stop unless there was nothing else. To me that is not camping anyways.

But just because I have not had problems, it does not mean nobody else could. There are a lot of crazy people out there and you have to be cautious and I believe you should have something to protect yourself.
mc_cc
Explorer
Nov 16, 2014
Well, with that large DP there should be ample room to mount a pump action shot gun on the wall in the bedroom. That should be enough security if, in the unlikely event someone does break in. Seriously, we do keep a shot gun on board. Better to be safe than sorry. If your wife is anxious about security, a condo in a gated community may be a better choice.
holstein13
Explorer
Nov 15, 2014
I've travelled over 29,000 miles in the past three years in a motorhome and have never even seen a violent act, let alone been a part of one.
Crespro
Explorer
Nov 15, 2014
We stay in private RV parks with good ratings and always refuel during the day. These are simple steps that will give protection 99% of the time. In 24 years of RVing, we have not had problems. The RV parks always have staff in the area.

As I think about this, the incidents were on the road -- rare, but one or two drivers who did not follow the traffic rules and caused a potential problem. Fortunately, no accidents.
msmith1199
Explorer II
Nov 15, 2014
Obviously different parts of town may have different crime rates, but that doesn't mean you immune from crime just because you're in a nice part of town. I tend to get a little paranoid myself when out camping, but that's because I spent a career in law enforcement and have seen what can happen out there in the big bad world. A little paranoia and caution is good, too much is bad. The odds are in your favor. Most people do not become victims of crimes on a regular basis. But that doesn't mean you should let your guard down.
HOM
Explorer
Nov 15, 2014
I didn't know that Walmarts, Low's and Home Depot's can be trouble. I guess it all comes down to the part of town you're in right?

Even in our car we travel through large cities during the day with no intention of overnighting there. Its not about fear its about smart! Trouble can start anywhere, just stay away from those places with a higher possibility of it.

Like most of you I've heard about trouble but have not witnessed it personally. But will never live my life as a victim. If you're coming after me bring your lunch, you'll be at it awhile. If nothing else I'll cry all over you and shrink your shirt! :)

You guys are great,

HJ
down_home
Explorer II
Nov 15, 2014
The Motorhome itself is secure. It has heavier doors and double locks and an alarm system, of if it doesn't one can be installed.
If she is capable or can learn to handle a firearm go for it. Get a CCW or whatever and just observe the laws, of the location, you may be at at any one time. If the surroundings don't seem safe just leave. Wal Marts etc pull offs and rest stops depending on area of the Country may have some unsavory elements.
If you witness them then just leave. They aren't going to get into the Motorhome, unless you let them in. They try you have two big air horns that will wake the dead.Hit them in once twice once or SOS again and again.
Most RV Parks are safe. RV resorts usually more so with gates and frequently guards.
stugpanzer
Explorer
Nov 15, 2014
I have only read about issues but have never been witness to any nor have I been a victim. With that said, I do conduct myself as I do every where with practical caution. The one thing I do is I use locking pins for my tow dolly and the hitch. I read about people messing with that stuff while people were stopped. It is part of my routine after every stop to check the usual stuff plus those things that people might mess with.
J-Rooster
Explorer
Nov 15, 2014
We travel mostly to Arizona and most RV Resorts that we go to have security. I've never had any security problems RVing and I've been RVing since 1976.
HOM
Explorer
Nov 15, 2014
My wife is not fearful, she knows I ask you guys questions and thought it a reasonable question to ask. Your responses took care of any concerns and recognized as you said. You must be aware of your surroundings and be smart about what you do.

This is true if your in a motorhome, a car or sitting in your home. Pay attention and be smart in what you do!

I appreciate your posts, thank you.

HJ

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