Investigation into police activities in Gescher has concluded
On August 1, 2025, campers in Gescher were offered a valuable opportunity to ensure their safety during their holidays. Klaus Vogel, a representative from crime prevention, was distributing safety tips and Trigas alarm information.
Ludger Brinkhaus, aged 64, was among the campers who took advantage of the event. He brought his motorhome to the traffic training ground for weighing, and was pleased with the results, receiving a sheet of paper with the measurement results. The Lütke-Wissing couple, also present, took some of Vogel's safety tips flyers.
Trigas alarms, equipped with sensors that detect propane, anesthetic gas, and butane in the air, are designed to trigger an alarm upon detection. These alarms can help prevent break-ins and also detect leaking gas in camping equipment. The Lütke-Wissing couple already had additional locks, a parking brake, and a GPS tracker installed in their camper for protection.
The purpose of Brinkhaus' visit was to ensure his motorhome's axle load was within the legal limit before his camping holiday. The police weighed campers for free and provided safety tips. The traffic training ground had a queue of campers waiting to be weighed.
Campers can ensure safety during their holidays by taking several practical measures. Arriving at the campsite during daylight to familiarize yourself with the area is crucial. Using window covers to block visibility inside your vehicle is also advisable. Always lock doors before sleeping and park in a way that allows a quick exit if needed. Keeping keys and the driver’s seat ready for rapid departure is also recommended. Taking basic wilderness first aid training to manage common injuries is another important step.
Regarding threats like gas attacks, there are no explicit measures provided in the search results. However, general preparedness would include good ventilation for gas safety, and awareness of potential hazards in your camping area.
For security against break-ins, it is advised to lock doors, consider installing motion lights or security cameras, and avoid parking in sketchy or isolated areas.
If you need to weigh your vehicle, many states have public truck scales and some RV parks or service centers offer weighing services. It is recommended to call ahead to a local truck stop or RV park to inquire about access to weighing services.
Several police authorities offer weighing and advice actions for campers, such as in Duisburg and Mettmann. Two weighing and advice events were held in Duisburg before the Easter and summer holidays, and another one is planned towards the autumn holidays in Mettmann.
Another method thieves use is to throw a stone at a camper's side during a break at a rest area, simulating a collision, to unsettle campers and gain access to the interior.
For detailed advice and resources, campers can consult guides such as Wayfarer Vans' empowered travel tips for women campers, GearJunkie for van life safety and practical tips, and RV beginner advice from Cruise America that covers smart packing and choosing appropriate campgrounds.
In summary, campers can increase security by locking up, using window covers, positioning their vehicle for a quick escape, and installing security devices. Taking a wilderness first aid course to handle emergencies is also important. Monitoring weather and campsite safety conditions to avoid hazards like flooding is crucial. Being mindful of your camper’s weight limits and using public or commercial truck scales for weight checks is also advisable. Accessing safety tips from reputable camping and van life resources online for detailed preparedness plans is recommended.
More lifestyle choices can be made for a safer travel experience during holidays. For instance, seeking advice from representatives, such as Klaus Vogel, on safety tips and Trigas alarm information could prove beneficial. Moreover, installing additional locks, parking brake, GPS tracker, and motion lights in one's camper can enhance security against break-ins during travel.
