Adult Audience Only, Update January 2024

Protecting Your Troop Equipment Trailer

Hello Scouts and Scouters, today’s safety moment focuses on safeguarding your troop’s valuable equipment trailer from theft. Properly securing your trailer not only prevents financial loss but also ensures that your troop’s outings and activities proceed without disruptions caused by missing equipment.

The Importance of Prevention:

A troop’s equipment trailer holds valuable gear essential for successful outings. Preventive measures are key to deterring theft, although no method is foolproof. The objective is to make stealing the trailer a difficult and unattractive prospect for potential thieves.

Security Measures to Consider:

Physical Security:

• Hitch Lock: Use a hitch lock to secure the ball socket, ensuring the hasp is locked. Remove or padlock safety chains.
• Door Locks: Lock rear doors from the inside and upgrade side door handles. Add hasp and padlock for enhanced security.
• Wheel Locks: Employ a sturdy “boot” that immobilizes the tire and wheel, covering lug nuts to prevent removal.

Visual Deterrents:

• Bright Paint: Paint your troop number on the roof in large numerals. Alternatively, paint the tongue, rear bumper, and wheels in a conspicuous color.
• Equipment Storage: If feasible, avoid storing equipment in the trailer, making it less appealing to potential thieves.

Electronic Measures:

• Theft Detection: Consider using alarms or motion sensors.
• Surveillance Cameras: Install cameras to monitor the trailer’s location.
• Tracking Device: Use electronic trackers to trace the trailer’s location.

Location and Identity:

• Secure Storage: Whenever possible, store the trailer in a secure, locked yard with limited access.
• Parking Strategy: Position the hitch towards a wall and remove the dolly wheel.
• Identity Protection: Do not store registration paperwork in the trailer. Temporarily remove the license plate during storage, and ensure it’s replaced before towing.

Insurance Coverage:

• Verify Coverage: Contact your chartered organization’s insurance carrier to confirm coverage for theft or equipment replacement.

Working Together to Prevent Theft:

By implementing these measures, we collectively contribute to protecting our troop’s equipment and ensuring the smooth flow of our outings. While no approach can guarantee absolute security, our efforts will discourage potential thieves from targeting our trailers. Let’s work together to create a secure environment for our troop’s equipment and continue enjoying our scouting adventures without unnecessary interruptions. Stay vigilant, stay safe!